#shine on haldir!

[from-the-coffee-shop-in-edoras]

Random thoughts in a boring meeting, armor edition:

I spent a lot of time on planes last week and United has LOTR as an in-flight entertainment option so I just rewatched everything again, and I am more convinced than ever—if we’re on Middle Earth fit watch, absolutely no one has battle armor that looks better than this:

I mean, it’s just impeccable. The gleam of the metallics on the chest and vambraces. The intricate design on the breastplate. The contrasting leather plackart. The shine on the scale armor that almost looks like a coat of tiny silver coins. The richness of the red of the cloak, with its own silver brooch fastener. The subtle little leather archer’s glove. My guy is absolute perfection, and that’s just the clothes, not even the elf inside them!

It takes a LOT for me to pick something over Eomer’s armor, which (of course) I also deeply love. The rust red leather with the cut-outs to see the metal underneath is so cool with its balance of art and function, and the horse tail helmet is distinctively bad ass—you can’t miss him in a crowd. (Théoden and Théodred have similar leather-covered armor with metallic decorative details, so the royal armorer in Rohan is apparently just an absolute beast.) Plus, though they don’t always wear them, Éomer and the other Rohirrim soldiers have those gorgeous green cloaks, too, which look so great flowing in the wind when they ride. (And again, we’re not giving points for face or bod, because COME ON!)

It’s a truly amazing look. But I’m still giving the slightest edge to the marchwarden here. Haldir’s armor makes him looks otherworldly in a way, like he really did just walk out of some glorious legend of the elder days in order to come save your mortal ass. Tolkien said elves shine with a special light about them, and Haldir is absolutely glowing in this armor!

Now, is it a coincidence that these two also happen to be the hottest guys in the films (to my own personal tastes, of course)? Actually, yes! I really did consider everyone else! Gimli’s helmet has really cool detail along the cheekbones and across the brow, but nothing else he wears stands out to me. Legolas hardly wears any traditional armor pieces, and Gandalf is free-balling it in his robes with no armor. The Gondorian battle armor is surprisingly plain—the tree device is pretty but subtle, and it could use more color and/or metals that have more of a shine to them. The orcs and uruks are just gross (by design). The Witch King’s armor is cool, I will give you that. But other than the articulated iron joints, it doesn’t have as much specific detail. And there are some unique and eye-catching elements to the armor of some of the Easterlings and Haradrim, but we don’t get great views of all of it and there’s the whole complicated issue of the sourcing of many of the visual characterizations in the Sauron-aligned men that is way beyond the scope of just what I’m looking at here.

So, yeah. Haldir and Éomer. I feel good about my choices!

[runawaymun]

Chapter Update: Beneath a Boundless Sky

LOTR fanfic | Elrond Centered with Ensemble Cast | hurt/comfort and action/adventure | Part 2 of the And the Stars Shine the Same series

20: Lothlórien

Elladan and Elrohir rest, consult their grandparents, and receive a surprise tool that will come in handy later ;)

FULL FIC SUMMARY

READ FROM PROLOGUE

[rivendell-poet]

*･༓˚✧❝𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 (𝐋𝐨𝐭𝐑)❞‧͙⁺˚༓˚✧ « scenarios »

○ Aragorn ○ Legolas ○ Frodo ○ Sam ○ Merry ○ Pippin ○ Boromir ○ Faramir ○ Éowyn ○ Éomer ○ Bard ○ Thranduil ○ Tauriel ○ Lindir ○ Haldir ○ Elladan ○ Elrohir ○

No TWs | GN!Reader | Wordcount : 3.3k (each individual around 190~ words) | Read on Ao3

« 1, 4, 5, 6, masterlist »

𝐀𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐧

✧ When you get to Rivendell the first thing you do is rush to Frodo’s side - checking he’s ok and thanking the healers.

✧ The second thing you do is take in the beauty of Rivendell, eyes going wide as you see the home of the elves in all its splendour.

✧ He’s walking with you and showing you Rivendell, eyes lighting up almost as much as yours when you see the sights - except the light in his eyes and the smile on his face come from your happiness.

✧ Taking note of what makes your eyes shine brightest, he begins to tour more specifically with your preferences in mind.

✧ As you turn around to express your love of something, he realises he’s too focused on trying to capture every inch of your beauty - especially while being in awe like that - that he misses the question.

✧ Aragorn hopes he isn’t blushing too much when he asks you to repeat the question, this time quickly answering it to the best of his abilities.

✧ The next room captures your attention, and Aragorn instinctively goes back to watching you and laughing with you before he realises what he’s doing.

✧ It’s then he realises the blush on his face isn’t because of embarrassment - but because he likes you.

𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐬

✧ Legolas is enjoying his time in Imladris, with one of the greatest things being the company. There is you, of course, and the rest of the Fellowship - but it is also nice to spend some time with fellow elves (who aren’t his subjects).

✧ Or, almost fellow elves, such as the sons of Elrond. He has always been intrigued by them, not just for the heritage, and it’s good to spend time with the two. Eventually, in a conversation with Elrohir, the topic finally comes up.

✧ “What is it like, living with Lúthien’s gift?”

✧ “Gift?” Elrohir looks at the elf, “Most call it a choice. Is there a reason you ask? A… someone you ask for?”

✧ His immediate reaction is to say no, and that he is just curious, but then he thinks harder. Is there someone he would stay on Middle Earth for?

✧ As he thinks, an image of the two of you - bow in your hand and grinning at him, bathed in sunlight - comes into his mind. And his mind subconsciously answers the question. If you would have him, he would answer yes.

✧ The elf stays silent, and Elrohir gives a knowing look, before speaking briefly. Offering some advice, and congratulating Legolas on at least figuring out his feelings.

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐨

✧ Frodo realised he liked you from just about the second he laid eyes on you - you were unlike anyone he had ever known, and that excited and fascinated him.

✧ He expected the crush to go away, eventually, once the novelty wore off and you were known to him as a friend.

✧ Except it never did. With every new smile he saw from you, every word, every laugh falling from your lips - he slowly became more and more enamoured by you.

✧ It was after yet another night that you’d come round for dinner, it was becoming a regular (and welcome) occurrence that he truly realised he didn’t just have a crush.

✧ Frodo was in love with you.

✧ When he’d finally closed the door, watching as you’d walked away, he could still feel the red on his cheeks - and could see the knowing smile Bilbo gave him when he’d turned around.

✧ Patting him on the back, Bilbo had given the young hobbit words of support and encouragement - a twinkle in his eye as he hinted this love may not be unrequited.

𝐒𝐚𝐦

✧ Sam had seen you in and around the Shire a few times before, stopping briefly to look at you before going back to what he was doing.

✧ At first he’d thought it was just him being observant, until Pippin had been over and pointed out that of all the hobbits in the Shire - he’d only stop to look at you.

✧ He was mortified to realise what he'd been doing, and had thrown himself back into his work with much more vigour. Trying to stop himself from being distracted, again.

✧ It works ok, but while in the Green Dragon Pippin assures him that the comments weren't meant in a bad way, and that they were all glad Sam had 'found someone'.

✧ Sam almost isn't sure what they mean, until he thinks back to all the times he's seen you - the times he's blushed. The very small interactions you two have had, that have then lightened his day.

✧ It's thanks to Pippin's teasing he realises he has a crush on you, and then thanks to Frodo when he can finally interact with you.

𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲

✧ Merry realised he liked you from the second he laid eyes on you.

✧ And not in a silly, young-hobbits-in-love type of crush - but something that reminded him of the story books he'd read as a child.

✧ The ones that said when you met the one for you, you'd feel sparks like Gandalf's fireworks and you'd just know.

✧ He did just know, taking the first opportunity he could to talk to you; talking to you felt even easier than most, as though you were a lifelong friend and not just a stranger.

✧ Every time you make eye-contact, he searches in your eyes for the spark he so clearly feels in his - and when he makes you laugh for the first time he's delighted to see it appear (however briefly).

✧ Each passing day cemented this feeling even more, but he still believes it was love at first sight (for him at least).

𝐏𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧

✧ When the two of you first met, Pippin thought you were an angel (an opinion he still holds, in some regards). The second he realised you were of Middle Earth, he also realised he was blushing like a fool.

✧ He knows the attraction isn't just superficial from the day he meets you, but he also sees it as a crush at the start.

✧ And then he starts to spend time with you.

✧ You make him laugh, he makes you laugh. He makes you smile, you make him smile just by being there.

✧ It's also at this time when he realises that what he feels for you isn't just a crush.

✧ He likes,  no - loves, every part of you. And to call it simply a crush would be an insult to his heart.

𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐫

✧ Like a lot of the soldiers of the White City, his spirits are high as he watches from Osgiliath, eagerly awaiting the return of the rangers, if only for a little while.

✧ Most of the men are looking forward to the night of celebrations and drinking, although some are more looking forward to seeing their loved ones come home.

✧ Boromir is looking forward to seeing his little brother come home - but he isn’t just looking forward to seeing his little brother. Faramir isn't the only one he dearly misses.

✧ As Captain, he’s in prime position when the rangers come in; immediately identifying the two of you and going over.

✧ He pulls Faramir into a hug before looking at you with a grin, unsure of what to do before you embrace him as well.

✧ Instantly, he hugs back - just as firm and confident as with Faramir’s hug - but inside he can feel his heart almost beating out of his chest.

✧ The grin is still on his face as he comes out of it, and when you begin to talk his heart calms down, although only a little.

✧ It’s only then when he realises his heart isn’t beating fast around you because you’re nervous, but because he loves you.

𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐫

✧ Faramir knew he liked you from the second he laid eyes on you, even if he was slightly too drunk to realise just how deep it went at the time.

✧ He truly didn’t drunkenly hook-up with people, but he did tend to gravitate towards people he liked. People like you, even when you were in the dark corner. Especially when you were in the dark corner.

✧ And of course, he had kissed you back. The only reason he didn’t try to take it further was because he could smell the alcohol on both of you.

✧ When he had woken up the next morning, he regretted that he had not gotten your name (and the slight hangover).

✧ Then when he saw you, lined up as one of Boromir’s potential betrothed, he could feel his heart do two things.

✧ Skip, at the sight of you again. And drop, at the idea you didn’t love him back.

𝐄𝐨𝐰𝐲𝐧

✧ Staring after Aragorn, Éowyn takes a deep breath, trying to remain calm. From chasing him down, and telling him that she knows looking after the children brings honour (without renown). But she should be allowed to seek honour in other places.

✧ And then she feels a hand rest on her shoulder, calming, as she turns around to see you behind her.

✧ You can see her thought process, and tell her that you aren’t here to override your brother’s - or her king’s - orders. But you are here to give her this.

✧ When you press the sword into Éowyn’s hands, finely polished and gleaming perfectly, she can barely think of the words to thank you before she notices your traditional sword is missing.

✧ Instantly, she realises what you’ve given here and tries to give it back - but you keep it firmly in her hands.

✧ “There are many fine weapons in this armoury. Think of it as my gift to you, for now. A promise that I will be coming back to collect it."

✧ "Besides, it brings me comfort that if orcs get into the caves they shall find a warrior there.”

✧ Taking your hand away from the sword you disappear to follow Aragorn, and Éowyn is left holding it. As she watches the two of you leave together, she realises that she may have fallen in love with the wrong sibling (at least at first).

𝐄𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐫

✧ When orcs are spotted within Rohan's borders, in two separate places no less, Éomer immediately takes action.

✧ It's bad luck you're on the second group of riders sent out, and worse when you haven't arrived back when Éomer does.

✧ He tries to reassure himself that it's simply bad luck, and nothing dangerous has happened, but by the second day his nerves get the better of him.

✧ With Éowyn he sets out to wait next to the gate you'll ride in from - a traditional practice.

✧ While waiting, he takes the time to look around and sees who else waits for the riders. When women there bat their eyes at him he ignores it until he realises something.

✧ Éomer is one of the only men there, and the only one not blood-related to the rider he is waiting for. Almost everyone else here is a parent, a sibling, or a lover.

✧ So where does that leave him?

✧ He feels blush begin to rise on his face as he realises precisely which one he is. Or, more accurately, which one he wishes to be for you.

𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐝

✧ Begrudgingly, Bard watches you leave for the final patrol of your shift before laughing as he sees Tilda’s pout when she looks at you going as well.

✧ Looking up at him, she huffs even more; declaring that it isn’t fair he’s allowed to smile while you’re here and while you're away.

✧ He responds that you’re good company, but he can be happy without you - and that’s a good thing.

✧ Then Tilda looks up at him with a doubtful expression. Announcing that he looks extra happy, and his face turns a bit red like when Bain had that fever one time. Or when Sigrid looks at the neighbour's kid, except she shouldn’t tease her sister about that because it’s ‘feelings’.

✧ As pleased as Bard is that his children are taking his lessons to heart, he’s less pleased about her observations.

✧ Keeping walking, Bard tries to reassure her that that’s not what’s going on with him and you - but internally he’s truly thinking about it.

✧ About the fact you’re the first person to make him smile like that for the first time in… a while.

✧ The fact he always lets his kids go up to you because then he can talk to you, and the fact he talks to you even if the kids aren’t with him.

✧ It’s then Bard realises that, somehow, his children have worked out he likes you before he has.

𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐢𝐥

✧ Thranduil had barely noticed that the biweekly meetings had become less formal, and more about the two of you spending time together.

✧ He hadn’t noticed that most of the time you spent talking was just about the two of you, and no longer about his son.

✧ The thing that made him notice just how special these meetings became was when, while watching you leave, he could feel his smile.

✧ There was a warmth in him that wasn’t just from the wine, or the fireplace, and instead a warmth because he felt comfortable.

✧ Around you, he could be himself. Not much changed, of course, but something about being near you felt freeing, and as though he was understood.

✧ A feeling he had not felt in a long time, but a feeling he nonetheless welcomed - especially when it was you that warmed his heart.

𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐥

✧ Both of you had managed to get into the royal guard - you getting into the king’s guard, while she began to work with the prince.

✧ It was while she was taking a break, eating in one of the soldier’s halls, when Alinar (a fellow guard) had come up to her with a grin. “So, you and them, right?”

✧ Trying not to sigh, Tauriel gave a quick answer that no, she was not interested in the prince before Alinar began to laugh. Explaining he hadn’t been teasing about her and Legolas, but her and you.

✧ “Anyone with eyes can see you look at them like they’ve got a fourth elven ring, Tauriel. You’re really not subtle.”

✧ She continues to deny, swatting him away, although this time it’s more on principle. Not because she doesn’t like you.

✧ Because… she does look at you that way. You are magnificent, and wondrous, and she does want to be more than your friend.

✧ As you walk into the hall, you look over to the empty space besides her and immediately come over - and she wonders if she normally blushes this much when you smile at her.

𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐫

✧ Staring at the new poems he’s written, Lindir wonders to himself when his inspiration went from nature and the Valar to… love.

✧ He can still recognise the work as his own, the same metaphors and adoration for his subjects, but he never considered writing romance. Or writing about someone romantically - because he knows that all his works have a muse.

✧ Re-reading the lines over, he tries to imagine the different elves of Imladris fitting into this prose but none of them do.

✧ Deciding to leave it for later, Lindir takes the scrolls and keeps them with him - resolved in going to the library.

✧ On his way there, you cross paths with him - immediately smiling and asking how his day was.

✧ It’s there, looking ethereal against the backdrop of Imladris and roses, that Lindir realises the subject of his new writings.

✧ You are his new muse.

𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐫

✧ Haldir had felt a spark from the first moment you had interacted, your bow drawn - placed in front of your allies and standing as though it would need a thousand warriors to fell you.

✧ These feelings hadn’t even gone away as you let the arrow fly, only afterwards realising he’s not a threat and batting it out of the air.

✧ When you start to apologise he easily stops you, stating that it’s a relief that the Fellowship is travelling with a skilled warrior like yourself.

✧ Watching you go to the Lady Galadriel, he tries to untangle what he’s feeling for you. Is it simply admiration? Or is it something more?

✧ Seeing you alone and clearly wanting to move, he approaches you after the meeting - offering to show you around Lothlórien.

✧ It’s for a somewhat selfish motive, as he wants to try and realise what his feelings are.

✧ And, as his heart seems to lift when you look around and finally seem happy, he understands what his heart wants.

𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐧

✧ It’s the day after their birthday, finally in their first century, when Elrohir wakes his brother up by poking him.

✧ Elladan is still sleepy, but he’s aware enough to ask what his twin thinks he’s doing.

✧ “I want to know why you didn’t confess, brother dearest.”

✧ The sing-song voice is annoying, but Elladan still gives the question some thought. Confess? About what? Or confess to someone?

✧ Seeing his brother clearly isn’t going to get it, Elrohir lets out a sigh before directly name-dropping you. He’s instantly rewarded with seeing a heavy blush, before poorly spluttered denial about you simply being a friend.

✧ Looking directly into Elladan’s eyes, he speaks again. “Brother, I have watched the two of you dance around each other for almost a century. Sometimes I think I’m the one suffering because of your love. You could at least acknowledge your feelings to yourself.”

✧ He can still see the blush on Elladan’s face, obvious against his hair. But he can also see acceptance and realisation in his brother's eyes. The realisation that he wants you as something more than a friend.

✧ “Took you long enough.”

𝐄𝐥𝐫𝐨𝐡𝐢𝐫

✧ Elrohir was never sure if he believed in love at first sight. It was never something discussed among the elves, where feelings tended to develop over years of emotional connection. But it also seemed like a real thing to mortals - and not just in the tales of old.

✧ As a son of Elrond, where did that leave him? Would his feelings come after decades with a lover, or from a glance across the forest?

✧ And then you arrived.

✧ Instantly, something skipped in his heart - and he felt almost exactly what he’d always thought true love would feel like.

✧ But it wasn’t quite the blazing fire that some of the tomes described, more like a spark.

✧ Then he met you again, desperately trying to do the best you could to keep your city safe. And then again in Gondor’s war council, fearlessly pledging your allegiance to the new king and winning over others with honeyed words and promises.

✧ It was then when his heart was set on you.

✧ So, not quite love at first sight, it had taken a little more time for him to be completely sure.

✧ Yet he was still completely enamoured by you, at the latest, by at the end of your third meeting.

Hope you enjoyed! So sorry this is late, I had it completed and then forgot to post it - was just sitting in my drafts. Soo... yeah, I am very sorry about that. Thank you again for your support! Requests here.

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[thewulf]

Entwined Realms || Legolas

Summary: Request: So I thought about this idea with Legolas x reader where the reader is the daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn (which makes her princess of Lothlorien and a very high elf) and she is nervous because its commonly known that Galadriel and Thranduil dont like each other (she is still his superior but you get the point) and the reader and Legolas have a dinner or some council or something together with their parents.

A/N: This was one of my favs to write. Just love everything LOTR... please keep them coming! Thank you for the request @lillisummers

Pairing: Legolas x Female Reader

Word Count: 4.1k +

TW: Talks of war/death

In the timeless realm of Lothlórien, you, the daughter of Galadriel and Celeborn, walked among the golden trees with a heavy heart filled with the weight of ancient grudges. It had been many years since you last tread upon these familiar paths, for you had spent much of your time in Rivendell, aiding in the healing of those who bore the scars of war.

As a princess of the high elves, you bore the burden of your lineage with grace. Yet the tension between your mother and Thranduil, the Elvenking of Mirkwood, weighed heavily upon you. The animosity between them was no secret, and you often found yourself caught in the midst of their disagreements. You were torn between loyalty to your mother and the desire for unity among your people after the war of the ring. Your return to Lothlórien had been sudden, called back by your father during the darkest days of the war. The news of battles raging across middle earth had filled you with dread. Yet, you knew that your place was by your family's side, lending whatever aid you could in the struggle against the darkness.

Despite the discord that lingered between your realms you held onto hope, believing in the power of unity to overcome adversity. The memories of Celebrian's capture and torture haunted you still. She drove your determination to see an end to the suffering that had plagued your people for so long.

As you walked beneath the golden canopy of the trees, you found solace in the familiar sights and sounds of Lothlórien. The gentle rustle of leaves in the breeze, the soft glow of the evening sun filtering through the branches. They spoke to you of peace and beauty, reminding you of all that was worth fighting for in this world. Your steps carried you towards a familiar spot. The quiet glade where the gravestones of those fallen in battle lay. The air was hushed. The only sound was the soft whisper of leaves and the gentle trickle of water from the nearby streams.

Stopping by the gravestones, you traced your fingers over each weathered stone, feeling the weight of loss settle upon your heart. Here, beneath the earth, lay the brave souls who had given their lives in service of a greater cause. A cause that you had fought for alongside them. Your thoughts turned to Haldir, the gallant Marchwarden who had stood by your side in the darkest of times. His laughter, his kindness, his unwavering loyalty… they were memories that you held dear, memories that would live on long after he had passed from this world. At one point you were convinced you would marry him but that was before he was taken so suddenly from you.

Closing your eyes, you allowed yourself a moment of silence. A moment to remember those who had been taken from you too soon. Their faces flashed before your eyes, friends, fighters, and loved ones alike. Each one leaving behind an indelible mark upon your soul. And yet, amidst the sorrow, there was also hope. Hope for a future where their sacrifices would not be in vain. Where the darkness would be banished for good and the light would shine so brightly once more. With a silent prayer upon your lips, you vowed to carry their memory with you always, to honor their legacy in all that you did.

As you stood amidst the gravestones, lost in memories and reflections, a soft voice broke through the silence. She was calling your name. You turned to see your mother, Galadriel, approaching with a gentle smile upon her lips. Her eyes, always so wise and knowing, held a depth of understanding that eased the ache in your heart.

"Y/n," she said, her voice like the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind, "I have been searching for you. It is good to see you home again. You look well my love."

You returned her smile, feeling a sense of warmth and comfort wash over you at the sight of her familiar face. "It is good to be home, Mother," you replied, stepping forward to embrace her.

Galadriel held you close, tight. Her arms a reassuring embrace amidst the turmoil of emotions swirling within you. "You have been missed, my dear," she said softly, pressing a kiss to your forehead.

As you pulled away, Galadriel's gaze softened. Her eyes filled with a mixture of pride and affection. "There is much to discuss," she said, her voice taking on a more serious tone. "But first, I have news that I believe will bring you much joy."

Curiosity piqued, you listened as Galadriel spoke of the upcoming marriage between your niece, Arwen, and Aragorn, the King of Gondor. The news filled you with a sense of anticipation, the prospect of a wedding bringing a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness that had shrouded middle earth for so long. "I would be honored to attend," you said. Your heart swelling with love for your family and excitement for the joyous occasion to come.

Galadriel smiled, her eyes sparkling with pride. "I had no doubt that you would," she said, her voice tinged with warmth. "Come, let us return to Caras Galadhon and begin preparations. There is much to do, and little time to waste." She motioned you to follow her.

With a nod of agreement, you fell into step beside your mother. It felt as though the weight of grief and loss lightened by the promise of love and celebration on the horizon. As you walked the golden light of Lothlórien illuminated your path guiding you towards a future filled with possibility.

Too quickly the day of celebration arrived. The grand halls of Minas Tirith were adorned with banners and flowers, filling the air with a sense of festivity and anticipation. You, dressed in your finest elven attire, mingled with the guests. Your heart was aflutter with excitement and nerves for your niece and the King of Gondor. Amidst the bustling crowd, your eyes scanned the faces of those gathered taking in the sight of strangers and acquaintances alike. And then your gaze met that of a mysterious elven stranger across the ornate courtyard who you did not recognize.

His eyes were a captivating shade of blue. They held a warmth and kindness that drew you in, sending a shiver down your spine. For a brief moment it felt as though the world around you had faded away leaving only you and this enigmatic stranger in a universe of your own making. But as quickly as the moment had come, it was gone. Broken by the sound of laughter and music drifting through the air you tore your gaze away. Your cheeks flushed with a mixture of curiosity and excitement, heart racing with the memory of that brief but electrifying encounter.

Though you knew not who he was, nor what fate had in store for you. You couldn't shake the feeling that this chance meeting was somehow significant. And as you allowed yourself to be swept away by the joyous festivities you couldn't help but wonder about the identity of the mysterious elven stranger who had captured your attention with a single glance.

As the celebration unfolded you found yourself standing beside Arwen, basking in the glow of her happiness as she greeted guests and well-wishers. The air was filled with laughter and music. The joyous atmosphere infectious as people celebrated the union of Arwen and Aragorn. But amidst the revelry your attention kept drifting back to the beautiful blonde elf who had caught your eye earlier. He stood amidst a group of guests, his presence commanding and his gaze holding a quiet intensity that seemed to draw you in.

Unable to contain your curiosity any longer you turned to Arwen with a hint of nervousness in your voice. "Arwen," you began, pointing subtly towards the mysterious elf, "who is that?"

Arwen followed your gaze, her eyes sparkling with amusement as she noticed your interest in the stranger. "Ah, him," she said, her tone tinged with mystery. "That is Legolas, Prince of Mirkwood."

Legolas. The name echoed in your mind. Though you knew little about him there was something about the way he carried himself, the way his eyes seemed to hold a thousand untold stories that intrigued you beyond measure. As Arwen spoke of Legolas' exploits and noble deeds you found yourself captivated by the tales of his courage and valor. And though you knew it was foolish to be so taken with a stranger, you couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more to him. Something that called to you on a level you couldn't quite understand.

With a grateful smile you thanked Arwen for indulging your curiosity. Though your mind was already consumed with thoughts of the mysterious Prince of Mirkwood. And as you turned your attention back to the festivities you couldn't help but wonder what secrets lay hidden beneath the surface of the captivating blonde elf who had captured your attention with a single glance.

As the evening wore on, the atmosphere grew more relaxed. You found yourself drawn into the lively conversations and laughter that filled the air.

As if he had known your every thought, he had come right up to you. A charming smile playing on his lips as he offered you a goblet of wine. "Care for some wine, my lady?" he asked, his voice smooth and all too inviting.

Grateful for the distraction you accepted the goblet with a smile, the cool liquid soothing the nerves that had been fluttering in your stomach. "Thank you," you replied, taking a sip and relishing the taste of the rich, fruity wine.

As you savored the wine, Legolas took a seat beside you. His eyes alight with curiosity as he extended his hand in introduction. "I am Legolas," he said, his tone warm and genuine. "A pleasure to make your acquaintance."

You felt a rush of excitement at the sound of his name, "And I am Y/n," you replied, your voice betraying a hint of nervousness that you quickly tried to mask.

Legolas smiled warmly at you, a glint of mischief dancing in his eyes as he raised his own goblet in a silent toast. "Well then, Y/n, here's to new acquaintances and delightful conversations," he spoke.

As the evening progressed, you found yourself drawn into conversation with Legolas. His easy charm and quick wit putting you at ease. Despite your initial nervousness you soon found yourself laughing and chatting with him as if you had known each other for years. With each passing moment you felt yourself growing more and more enchanted by Legolas. His presence filling you with a sense of warmth and belonging that you hadn't felt in a long time. Not since before your sister had set sail. And as you shared stories and laughter with the captivating Prince of Mirkwood you couldn't help but wonder what adventures lay in store for you both in the days to come.

When the topic turned to your family, you couldn't help but feel a pang of apprehension, unsure of how he would react upon learning the truth. "Your parents must be proud of you," Legolas remarked, his voice sincere as he glanced around at the grandeur of Minas Tirith. "To have a daughter as kind and courageous as you."

You smiled, touched by his words. Though a part of you hesitated to reveal your true lineage. "Thank you, Legolas," you replied, your voice tinged with uncertainty. "My parents... they are indeed proud, though our family is not without its complexities."

Legolas cocked his head with curiosity shining bright in his eyes. "Complexities?" he asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

You took a deep breath, steeling yourself for his reaction. "My parents are Celeborn and Galadriel," you confessed, watching closely for any sign of recognition or judgment in his expression.

To your surprise, Legolas' eyes widened in genuine surprise, his gaze softening with understanding. "Galadriel," he murmured, a hint of awe in his voice. "The Lady of Light herself. And Celeborn, the Lord of Lothlórien."

You nodded, relieved by his reaction. "Yes, though our family is not without its challenges," you admitted, your voice growing quiet. "There are... tensions between my parents and certain others in Middle-earth." You knew he knew, and he knew you knew. The two of you were dancing around your parents disdain for the other.

Legolas' expression grew somber. A shadow passing over his features. "I understand," he said, his tone tinged with empathy. "My own father, Thranduil, can be... difficult at times."

You felt a surge of empathy for Legolas knowing all too well the challenges that could arise from strained familial relationships. "It seems we are not so different after all," you said. A small smile playing at your lips.

Legolas returned your smile, his eyes warm and understanding. "Indeed," he said, his voice gentle. "But perhaps together, we can find a way to bridge the divide between our families."

Touched by his sincerity you could only keep grinning at him like a fool. "I would like that, Legolas," you replied. Your heart swelled with gratitude for the bond that was beginning to form between you.

As the night wore on into the wee hours of the morning you and Legolas found yourselves drawn deeper into each other's company. The hours quickly slipping away unnoticed as you laughed and talked beneath the starlit sky. The connection between you grew stronger with each passing moment. A bond of friendship and understanding blossoming into something deeper and more profound. Unfortunately, the celebration began to wind down. You found yourselves reluctant to part ways. The prospect of saying goodbye filling you with a sense of melancholy. "Perhaps we could extend our stay in Minas Tirith," Legolas suggested, his voice tinged with a hint of worry as if you wouldn’t accept. "There is still so much more to see and do. I have not seen this city without war disparaging it."

You nodded eagerly, the idea of spending more time with Legolas filling you with a sense of joy and excitement. "I would like that very much," you replied, a smile tugging at the corners of your lips. "There is still so much more we have yet to see. You distracted me tonight."

And so, you and Legolas remained in Minas Tirith for longer than planned, seizing every opportunity to steal away moments alone together amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Whether wandering the streets hand in hand or sharing quiet conversations in secluded corners. Each moment spent in Legolas' company felt like a precious treasure, a memory to be cherished for eternity.

As your extended stay in Minis Tirith came to an end the bond between you and Legolas deepened further than you could have imagined. Your hearts intertwining in a dance as old as time itself. One evening beneath the stars after your going away dinner the two of you sat together in the quiet solitude of the gardens, surrounded by the scent of blooming flowers and the gentle hum of crickets. The words you had been longing to say spilled forth from your lips.

"Legolas," you began, your voice barely above a whisper, "there is something I must confess to you." It truly was now or never for you did not know the next time you would see the elf that had captured your heart so quickly.

Legolas turned to you, his eyes filled with warmth and affection. "Yes, Y/n?" he replied, his voice soft and reassuring.

"I know this is quick,” you began, your voice soft and hesitant, "And we tend to do this slow, but I must admit... I really like you. More than a friend would."

You glanced away, cheeks flushing with embarrassment as you awaited his response. But when you dared to meet his gaze once more you found Legolas looking at you with a tender smile. His eyes filled with a warmth that mirrored your own feelings.

"Y/n," he said softly, reaching out to gently take your face in his hand, "your honesty means the world to me. I too have come to care for you deeply as well. As more than a friend would."

Your heart soared at his words. A sense of joy flooding through you at the knowledge that your feelings were reciprocated. And as you sat together in the quiet beauty of the gardens you knew that your bond with Legolas was something truly special. It was the beginning of a love story that was just beginning to unfold.

You didn’t want the night to end so you kept your wandering through the gardens. "Legolas," you began, your voice tinged with concern, "what do you think about... our families?"

Legolas glanced at you. His gaze thoughtful. "Ah, our esteemed parents," he replied with a wry smile. "Stubborn as ancient oaks and twice as difficult to move."

You couldn't help but laugh at his analogy, feeling a sense of relief at his lighthearted approach to the situation. "Yes, that's one way to put it," you agreed. A smile playing at the corners of your lips.

"But," Legolas continued, his tone turning more serious, "I believe they will come around in time. After all, love has a way of softening even the hardest of hearts."

You nodded feeling a flicker of hope kindling within you. "I hope you're right," you replied, leaning closer to him. "I just want them to see... how much we care for each other."

Legolas placed a comforting arm around your shoulders, drawing you closer to him. "They will, Y/n," he said softly, his voice filled with quiet confidence. "And until then, we'll just have to prove them wrong together."

As your time in Minas Tirith drew to a close, you couldn't shake the feeling that it was time for your parents and Legolas to meet. Despite the tension between your families, you were determined to show them that love knew no bounds, and that their differences could be set aside in the name of happiness.

On the morning that both of you were to depart you knew what you had to do. "Legolas," you began. Your voice tinged with nervousness, "I know it's unconventional, but... what if you and your father were to visit Lothlórien?"

Legolas blinked in surprise, clearly taken aback by your suggestion. "Visit Lothlórien?" he echoed, his brow furrowing in thought. "It's an... intriguing idea, Y/n, but I'm not sure how my father would feel about it."

You nodded, understanding Legolas' reservations. "I know it's a risk," you admitted, "but I believe that if he could experience the beauty and hospitality of Lothlórien for himself, he might begin to understand... and perhaps even appreciate our way of life."

Legolas considered your words for a moment before a smile spread across his face. "You may be right, Y/n," he said, his eyes alight with excitement. "Let's extend the invitation to my father and see what he says."

With a renewed sense of hope, you and Legolas set about preparing for Thranduil's visit to Lothlórien. You knew it wouldn't be easy, but you were determined to show both him and your parents that love could conquer even the deepest of divides. And so, with hearts full of anticipation and determination, you bid farewell to Minas Tirith. You knew that a new chapter of your journey was about to begin.

As Legolas and an initially reluctant Thranduil arrived in Lothlórien, the tension between them was palpable. Thranduil's expression was stoic and reserved, while Legolas wore a strained smile who was clearly uncomfortable with the situation. You greeted them warmly, hoping to ease the atmosphere, but even your efforts seemed to fall flat in the face of the lingering animosity between your parents. The initial interactions were awkward only filled with polite but strained conversation and forced smiles.

But as the evening progressed and the wine flowed freely the atmosphere began to shift. Your parents, Thranduil, and Legolas found themselves gradually relaxing in each other's company. The rigid barriers between them slowly melting away under the influence of hope after the war and shared experiences. You watched with a mixture of joy and relief as the tension dissipated, replaced by laughter and genuine conversation. Thranduil who had initially been so guarded found himself opening up. He began to share stories and jokes with Celeborn and Galadriel as if they were old friends.

And Legolas, too, seemed to come alive in the warmth of his father’s acceptance. His smile growing more genuine with each passing moment. It was as if a weight had been lifted from his shoulders finally allowing him to truly be himself in their presence. He chuckled at one of Thranduil's jokes and clinked glasses with Celeborn, a genuine smile gracing his features.

In the midst of the conversation Legolas turned to you, his eyes sparkling with affection. "Meleth nin," he said softly, his voice filled with utmost warmth.

As Legolas inadvertently uttered the Elvish endearment, my love, the words hung in the air laden with the weight of unspoken emotions. Your heart skipped a beat at his slip-up, and you couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement coursing through you.

"Really?" you exclaimed. Your eyes widened with surprise and utmost delight. For a moment you almost forgot that your parents and Legolas' father were present too caught up in the rush of emotion that swept over you.

Legolas blinked, his cheeks flushing with embarrassment as he realized what he had said in front of the parents. "I... uh, I mean..." he stammered, clearly flustered by your reaction.

But before he could finish, Thranduil let out a soft chuckle. The elvenking’s eyes twinkling with amusement. "It seems our children are more than just friends," he remarked to your parents. His tone surprisingly light-hearted.

You turned to your parents with a sheepish smile tugging at the corners of your lips. "I guess we should have mentioned that sooner," you admitted feeling a surge of relief as you saw their understanding smiles.

Celeborn and Galadriel exchanged knowing glances before Celeborn spoke up. "Love has a way of revealing itself in unexpected ways," he said, his voice filled with warmth. "We are happy for you both."

Thranduil let out a small chuckle. His eyes crinkling with amusement. "Young love," he said before shaking his head in mock exasperation. "It seems like only yesterday that Legolas was just a boy chasing after butterflies in the woods."

Legolas rolled his eyes playfully at his father's comment. "I assure you, Ada, I have grown up a bit since then," he spoke. His tone teasing but affectionate.

Celeborn chuckled softly his eyes twinkling with mirth. "Indeed," he agreed, his voice warm. "But some things never change." He motioned to you with a knowing grin.

And as the tension melted away completely, replaced by laughter, and shared understanding, you couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the unwavering support of your parents. With their blessing and acceptance, you and Legolas knew that your love story was only just beginning. You were finally destined to have a beautiful and unforgettable journey filled with laughter, joy, and the sweet promise of a future together. You had waited a long time for this. A very long time.

As the night grew deeper and the fire crackled softly, you and Legolas found yourselves immersed in a comfortable silence. The two of you basking in the warmth of each other's presence. Legolas turned to you with a playful glint in his eyes, taking your hand in his. "Well, my dear, it seems the hour grows late," he remarked, his voice soft and warm.

You nodded feeling a surge of affection for the elf beside you. "Yes, it does," you replied, a smile playing at the corners of your lips.

With a gentle tug on your hand Legolas rose to his feet pulling you up with him. "Allow me to escort you to your room," he said. His voice filled with gentle sincerity.

You followed him, the touch of his hand sending a shiver of anticipation down your spine. As you reached your door, Legolas turned to you. His eyes sparkling with mischief. "Until next time, meleth nin," he whispered, pressing a soft kiss to your cheek before turning to leave.

A faint blush coated your cheeks at his actions. “Until next time, meleth nin.” You repeated. You watched him go with a smile playing at your lips as you realized that no matter what adventures lay ahead, you would face them with him. Oh, what a life.

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[gloomwitchwrites]

Gentle Dark

Haldir x Female Reader

Content & Warnings: romantic tension, yearning, passionate kissing, fade to black, admission of feelings, fluff, light angst

Word Count: 1.3k

On a patrol together, Haldir confronts you about your feelings for him even though you’re promised to another.

A/N: For @childofyuggoth

ao3 // taglist // main masterlist

The stars twinkle through the gnarled canopy. White. Bright. Bathing the forest floor with iridescent light. You close your eyes and inhale deeply, savoring the scents of the forest around you. Caras Galadhon dwells behind you, sleeping and silent in the peaceful dark.

You are attuned to every sound in the deep wood, and as you filter through it all, you find nothing out of place or suspicious. But the disturbance of the wood is not of your immediate concern. There are greater trials and closer bodies that seek your attention other than the animals that softly move through the underbrush.

Haldir of Lórien is a beacon in the dark. You sense him before you see him, standing just shy of your right shoulder.

“The night is quiet,” he whispers.

You open your eyes, turn to face him. “It is indeed.”

Haldir’s gaze casually drops to your lips and then back to your eyes. A gentle heat radiates up your body to encompass you in its embrace. You have little control over your body’s reaction to him.

The answering of your flesh when he is in your presence is unfair. It is a cruel joke. You are promised to another, but not one of your choosing. If you had a choice, you would pick Haldir.

Always.

But that is not to be. That is not the path set out before you.

Him standing here next to you, alone in the gentle dark, is agony. The heat of him is so near, so alive that it sends your senses tingling with anticipation. The clashing beat within you is a deafening drum.

Can Haldir hear the racing of your heart? Can he sense your need and your aching tremble?

You hope he can’t, but you also silently hope that he does. What would he do then?

Haldir’s gaze finally leaves you to glance out into the wood. “We should begin the patrol.”

“Of course,” you murmur, inclining your head, allowing Haldir to take the lead.

He returns his gaze to you briefly before taking a step forward to walk between two trees. You follow him at a short distance, watching the distance, keeping a constant pivot. The two of you walk in relative silence, moving like phantoms amongst the towering trees.

At a small clearing, Haldir pauses. You cozy up beside him, a question starting to form on your lips.

“Do you remember this place?” he asks softly, gaze fixated at the center of the clearing. A sharp beam of moonlight illuminates the ground. The flowers glow under its lunar light.

You do know this place. On one of your many patrols with Haldir, he confessed his love in this very clearing. He held your hands in his, kissed your knuckles and each of your fingers. He whispered in a longing of gentle song that soothed your nerves and calmed your soul. In that moment, you didn’t want anyone else, you only wished for him.

But how things change.

“It is etched upon my heart,” you answer truthfully.

Haldir’s silver hair shines like starlight. “I’d like to stay here. My memories of this place are happy ones.”

The two of you have come to this clearing on multiple occasions. It is no coincidence that Haldir’s patrol includes you. He selects you on purpose, and you go with him willingly because you desire the closeness. It will not last forever, not when you’re promised to another.

“We can only linger here for so long,” you remind him.

Haldir sighs heavily, and turns to face you. He has always been stoic. Calm. Even in your presence, even when he whispered gentle words of love to you, Haldir never appeared…desperate.

The look on his face now is anything but calm. It is intense—a billowing storm tightly contained.

���Stop looking at me like that,” you murmur, startled by the sudden change.

Haldir’s gaze goes to your lips, lingers, and then flicks up to your eyes. “Why do you deny yourself what you want?” he asks.

You swallow and tuck your clenched fist behind your back. Haldir’s directness is too much. He knows that this is not of your own choosing.

“You cannot ask this of me,” you answer, hating yourself for sounding so weak.

Haldir entirely shifts his body in your direction. Taking a step forward, he moves into your space. Your back bumps up against the tree next to you. Haldir places his hand against the trunk next to your head.

You are trapped, but by all the stars in the night sky, you do not care.

His scent is woodsy and clean. You lean in a bit, inhaling, attempting to remember his smell since this might be your last opportunity to do so.

“You stay loyal to him.” Haldir bends at the elbow, pressing in. “And yet you know that he lusts after another.” The center of his brow furrows slightly. “Why not be with someone who will always worship you?”

Him. Him, meaning, your betrothed. The one you’re supposed to be with in the end. The selection made for you. This is an expectation placed upon you.

And Haldir is right. He does not love you. While you intend to be loyal in your upcoming marriage, you also know his heart will yearn for another. But you also yearn for someone else, and Haldir is standing right here, questioning all of this, wanting to know why you won’t pick him.

“Sometimes duty comes before happiness,” you reply softly, gaze cast downward.

“Does it?” he counters quickly.

You keep your face turned toward the ground. Stare at your feet.

The two of you have lain in this clearing, limbs draped over and around each other. There has always been closeness between the two of you. There has always been touching, skin pressed to skin, lips brushing but never fully meeting. Yet, the two of you have never completed the act itself.

That is binding. That is forever.

But you see it in Haldir’s eyes now as you sneak a peek of him. That desperate hunger. The desire to be with one person for the end of your days. It is an arrow through the heart, piercing and sharp and stinging.

You wish to satiated it, to admit to what you want most in this world. Because it is him. It is Haldir that you crave more than anyone else.

“I would be breaking my oath,” you reply softly, finally having the courage to look at him directly.

“Would you?” he asks. “You have made no vow. You have created no bond. The choice is yours. Utterly.” He gestures at himself with his free hand. “And I am right here.”

With a shaking hand, you reach up to cradle his cheek. Haldir turns into your touch, sighing gently, and that snaps your resolve, dissolves it like the winter snows melting in the sun. Haldir must sense the change, because the two of you meet, lips finally joining in what they’ve been longing for.

He tastes perfect. Wonderful. A match made for the ages.

Haldir’s hand upon the tree departs, leaving the bark to encircle your waist, to draw your body against his. You do not resist. You surrender to him, opening like a flower, wanting nothing more than to forget all your fears and sorrows in this little clearing.

The night is long, but it is not forever. For now, the two of you can have this.

Haldir drags you even closer, pressing you firmly against him as he learns the contours of your lips. His hands discover the planes of your body, and yet it’s not enough for him. Haldir is charged like lightening across the sky.

The two of you have been denying these mutual feelings for far too long.

This is a tremor. Earth-shaking. A star bursting into dust.

Haldir guides you to the center of the clearing, easily removing his cloak with one hand. He breaks away a moment to lay it down on the dewy grass, reaching for you the moment it fans out to hold the two of you.

You sink down with him, buckles and straps, and armor disappearing as you go.

It is everything.

It is nothing.

It is all you need in the gentle dark.

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[er-osion]

Haldir Headcanons

pairing: Haldir x gn!Reader

summary: relationship headcanons with Haldir of Lórien. [SFW]

word count: 789

warnings: none, fluff

∾∾∘⋅∗⋄⋆⋄∗⋅∘∾∾

- He is such a chill boyfriend.

- He’s the epitome of calm like 99% of the time and it really brings stability to your relationship.

- He seems pretty serious, and he is, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be fun. His humor is definitely dry, but once you get it, you get it and you’re always cracking up because he always makes the right joke at just the right moment.

- He can be pretty quiet so a lot of your time spent together will most likely be in comfortable silence.

- I think he’d prefer to show his love via quality time and words of affirmation. While his words of affirmation may not be spoken very often, they are always heavy with sincerity and very personal to you and your relationship.

- Haldir definitely likes using pet names like “my darling” or “meleth” or “sweetheart” and he uses them quite often, even in public. He also has nicknames for you that come from inside jokes, but he usually saves those for more private company.

- Haldir just loves spending time with you, he doesn’t care so much about what you’re doing, as long as you’re together. He’s happy just sitting quietly at home, doing your own things in the same room, or going out to do an activity. So long as the two of you are together, and you’re happy, he’s happy.

- Haldir likes to see you smile. Just seeing you smile brightens his day and makes him so much happier. He likes to tell you that your smile shines brighter than all the lights in Lothlórien. When he’s coming home from patrol, he’s actually looking forward to seeing your face while you're smiling. There’s something about the light in your face when you’re grinning that makes his heart pick up its pace.

- Haldir isn’t super great at communication though. Being quiet is his nature, and that can include his feelings. It’s kind of a slow start for you in getting him to open up. It still takes effort sometimes too, he just naturally keeps things to himself. This has been a point of some arguments, but both of you dislike fighting and understand what to do to avoid such things. So fortunately, actual arguments are few and far between.

- Haldir doesn’t like PDA. He’s quite professional and private so PDA doesn’t really mix with him. He doesn’t ignore or avoid you in public, just don’t expect big displays of affection because he’s not very comfortable with that. But, if the two of you have spent a lengthy amount of time apart, he’ll hold your hand in public and maybe even give you a chaste forehead kiss because he missed you.

- Haldir is surprisingly passionate, especially after he’s been away from you for a while. His passion can appear a little different though. For example, sometimes he’ll kiss you with desperate fervor and fire, but other times he’ll kiss you slowly and deeply but still with equal passion. His heart is always present in all his actions with you

- Haldir doesn’t drink a lot, but during festivals or other celebrations he’ll sometimes indulge and when he does, all he talks about is you. Haldir will drunkenly ramble about how pretty you are, how intelligent you are, how talented you are, etc etc. Those around him will find it equal parts endearing and annoying. His pale cheeks would be dusted with pink from both alcohol and thoughts of you.

- Haldir would be super happy with getting domestic with you. He loves those simple moments; getting groceries from the market, going shopping for your individual hobbies, doing the laundry, cooking. Haldir loves to be domestic with you.

- Haldir is very attentive to your needs. He may not say it or outwardly express it, but you can tell by his actions. If you’re sad, your favorite snacks will appear out of nowhere. If you ran out of supplies for a hobby or finished a book, new supplies or a new book will show up on your nightstand without a word. Whatever it is you need, Haldir notices and quietly takes care of it. He may not always be able to do it since he’s quite busy as Marchwarden, but when he has the chance, he takes care of all your needs.

- Haldir feels like he’s always falling in love with you. There will be moments when the two of you are together and he’ll just take you in and get that sensation of falling in love all over again. He’ll never get sick of it either, it’s one the greatest joys of his day.

- Haldir loves you so much, it’s a quiet kind of love but it’s strong all the same. He does everything he can to make sure you know that everyday. One of the things he’s proudest of in his life is his relationship with you. He prays to Eru that he’ll be with you until the end of Arda, so long as you’ll have him.

[errruvande]

Haldir (as his beautiful face was everywhere) and wool.

(this is for the drabble!)

Emma, thank you for your participation 💖

This ended up being heavy on the ficlet side, then a drabble, but oh, what should I do 😅

It was a long few weeks of Haldir's absence. Being married to him for almost a millennium, you grew almost comfortable with your husband's frequent absence. After all, you knew who you were marrying, you knew exactly how little of him you'd get in your life, from his duty was to scout the borders of your beautiful home and, if needed, to lead the army of the elves of Lothlorien into battle, thought you've been brushing the last thought from your mind, for the horror would lie too heavy on your heart if it comes to that end.

In lack of Haldir by your side you found yourself a hobby to keep you busy, distracting your eager mind from the gloomy thoughts of your husband's wellbeing.

Once the market in Caras Galadhon was full of new items from both Lothlorien and the lands further south, such as golden fields of Rohan and distressed Gondor, you decided to buy some wool to weave yourself a warm cloak. Then, it was a challenge to reckon with. One day, when Haldir returned from his scouting, he rashed to your shared talan only to find you tangled in the yarn, the weaving wheel laying on it's side on the floor next to your whimpering figure.

Now, you were well known as a marvelous weaver, and have been making cloaks and gowns for all the elleths in Lorien.

You were sitting at the table in your talan, weaving yet another grey cloak, when you heard the door creaking, light steps becoming closer and closer to you.

“Meleth nîn!” You would recognize his scent, the way he breathes and walks with your eyes closed. You jumped from your seat to welcome Haldir, as he finally came home from another patrol.

“Y/N…” Haldir cupped your cheeks, bowing his head just slightly to touch your forehead with his, and slowly succumbed into a long desired kiss.

After every patrol you kissed him for the first time in your life, the kiss is so intimate and soft, it feels like a gentle breeze caressing your lips. You missed this. With every inch of your being.

Your hands were resting on his chest, softly brushing the thin material of his tunic, as he lowered one of his hands to take in your palm. “I've missed you terribly, meleth”

You felt so desperate, letting his lips part from yours when you only wanted them to linger and take all the air away from your lungs, that feeling alone made you whimper silently.

But that was the time, when Haldir took your hand in his and lifted it to look at your palm closely, your fingers shaking a little from the long days of weaving, little blisters shining on the their tips.

“You should take some time off, love.” he didn't hesitate to press your palm to his lips and kiss it softly, moving along each of your fingers, pecking them in tiny little kisses. “You should not work at a loss of your health.”

“I would gladly not work at all, my love,” you watched him grazing your hand with kisses, his clear blue eyes locked on yours. “but then I would be thinking about you without a rest, and that will cause more loss of my health than a slightly shaking fingers”

Haldir chuckled softly, bringing the second palm of yours to his face and kissing the tips of your fingers gently. He started walking on you, leading you away from the wool and the weaving wheel, so you could stop thinking about your work at least for a few minutes.

“Is that new?” He noticed a blanket spread on top of the big bed, blue with a deep green ornament on it. You nodded.

“Made it a few days ago” you glanced over the bed, tugging your palms out from Haldir's grip and placing them around his waist, that fitted so perfectly between your hands, and pressed yourself to his body.

“Shall we test if it is soft enough?” You saw his face lighted with a smile, a light chuckle leaving his mouth, as he made another step, pressing your calves to the bed.

“Meleth, I have work to be done…” Haldir could definitely hear a note of disappointment in your airy voice, as you sat on the bed, looking him in the eyes, hands still curled around his muscular waist.

“Your husband just returned from a month-long patrol.” He reached your face with his palm and grazed your cheek with his soft fingers carefully, sending a light shiver down your neck. “I think they will understand.”

You stretched one of your arms beside you, leaning to your back and watching Haldir bending over you to gift you a soft kiss on the neck. The woolen blanket feels soft and delicate under your touch, just as the kisses your husband showering your naked areas of skin with, forcing a little whine to exit your mouth.

“Perhaps they will”

Send me a word and a character: LOTR/TH, TLK or VIKINGS - and I will try and write a drabble or ficlet ✨

[conundrumoftime]

Galadriel and Celeborn in earlier drafts of LOTR (part 1)

Since Twitter is getting closer to unusable I'm going to try to collect up more of my various scattered-thought meta-y threads from there into more coherent form on here. So first off: Galadriel's first appearance in Tolkien's early drafts of LOTR, and what I find so interesting about it! (This is all from The Treason of Isengard, the seventh book in the History of Middle-earth series.)

Beginning by throwing in this delightful little footnote in which Tolkien considered making Galadriel x Elrond canon :)

A second rejected note was written at some time later against Haldir's words 'they bring me a message from the Lord and Lady of the Galadrim': Lord? If Galadriel is alone and is wife of Elrond.

Anyway!

So this is the earliest appearance of Galadriel in any of Tolkien's writings, and Tolkien's writing process and approach to his whole mythology and the characters within it is so evident from the way he so clearly creates her, looks at what he's created, and thinks "oh she's got to be important" and then starts to weave her into all the earlier First and Second-Age stories.

As the notes and drafts of the Lothlorien chapters evolve Galadriel's role becomes more important and Celeborn's less. Some of the lines she gets in LOTR were his in earlier drafts, eg "your quest is known to us, but we will not speak of it openly"; Christopher Tolkien's notes say of one change that Galadriel ‘expresses the opinion previously given to Keleborn, and more decisively’. (It's funny to me in this context that the line Celeborn is best known for after the films, the "where is Gandalf" one, is Galadriel's in the book.)

Intriguingly the Mirror is in the earlier drafts & notes Celeborn's - it first appears as the 'Mirror of King Galdaran' (an earlier name for him) - and he's apparently the one who tells Frodo and Sam what it shows. Then it's his mirror, but she's the one who uses it; then finally it's just hers.

The earlier draft of their introduction:

On two seats at the further end [of the room] sat side by side the Lord and Lady of Lothlórien. They looked tall even as they sat, and their hair was white and long. They said no word and moved not, but their eyes were shining.

Compared to the LOTR version:

On two chairs beneath the bole of the tree and canopied by a living bough there sat, side by side, Celeborn and Galadriel. They stood up to greet their guests, after the manner of Elves, even those who were accounted mighty kings. Very tall they were, and the Lady no less tall than the Lord; and they were grave and beautiful. They were clad wholly in white; and the hair of the Lady was of deep gold, and the hair of the Lord Celeborn was of silver long and bright; but no sign of age was upon them, unless it was in the depths of their eyes; for these were keen as lances in the starlight, and yet profound, the wells of deep memory.

That draft names them as 'Keleborn and Galadriel', but JRRT's earlier notes give other names: Tar and Finduilas -> Aran and Rhien -> Galdaran and Galdri(e)n -> Galathir and Galadhrien. Celeborn also appears randomly as 'Arafain' at one point. (Interesting that Tolkien dropped the Gal- entirely from Celeborn's name in the end but named his brother 'Galathil'; in my head they're twins.)

In this early draft Celeborn also has quite a detached and thoughtful approach to the news of the Balrog in Moria, compared to his eventual dialogue in LOTR which reads more like "the dwarves woke up a fucking what?"

Early draft:

“Tell me the full tale,' said Keleborn. Ingold [= Aragorn] then recounted all that had happened upon the pass of Caradras and afterwards; and he spoke of Balin and his book and the fight in the Chamber of Mazarbul, and the fire, and the narrow bridge, and the coming of the Balrog. 'A Balrog!' said Keleborn. "Not since the Elder Days have I heard that a Balrog was loose upon the world. Some we have thought are perhaps hidden in Mordor [?or] near the Mountain of Fire, but naught has been seen of them since the Great Battle and the fall of Thangorodrim. I doubt much if this Balrog has lain hid in the Misty Mountains - and I fear rather that he was sent by Sauron from Orodruin, the Mountain of Fire."

and LOTR:

'I saw Durin's Bane,' said Gimli in a low voice, and dread was in his eyes. 'Alas!' said Celeborn. 'We long have feared that under Caradhras a terror slept. But had I known that the Dwarves had stirred up this evil in Moria again, I would have forbidden you to pass the northern borders, you and all that went with you. And if it were possible, one would say that at the last Gandalf fell from wisdom into folly, going needlessly into the net of Moria.' 'He would be rash indeed that said that thing,' said Galadriel gravely.

Both versions have Galadriel's giving a similar-ish description of who they are and how she knows Gandalf, but you can see how much more significant her role in the events of the Third Age has become by the final LOTR version:

Early draft:

'Your quest is known to me,' said Galadriel, [?seeing] Frodo's look, 'though we will not here speak more openly of it. I was at the White Council, and of all those there gathered none did I love more than Gandalf the Grey. Often have we met since and spoken of many things and purposes.'

LOTR:

'Your quest is known to us,' said Galadriel, looking at Frodo. 'But we will not here speak of it more openly [...] I it was who first summoned the White Council. And if my designs had not gone amiss, it would have been governed by Gandalf the Grey, and then mayhap things would have gone otherwise.'

Her description of who she and Celeborn are, coming right after this, is also interesting to compare.

Early draft:

The lord and lady of Lothlorien are accounted wise beyond the measure of the Elves of Middle-earth, and of all who have not passed beyond the Seas. For we have dwelt here since the Mountains were reared and the Sun was young.

LOTR:

For the Lord of the Galadhrim is accounted the wisest of the Elves of Middle-earth, and a giver of gifts beyond the power of kings. He has dwelt in the West since the days of dawn, and I have dwelt with him years uncounted; for ere the fall of Nargothrond or Gondolin I passed over the mountains, and together through ages of the world we have fought the long defeat.

Some things I find interesting about this:

the implication that they are both Noldor in this earliest version;

the change from both of them being accounted 'wise' to just him, lol Galadriel what happened here;

'a giver of gifts beyond the power of kings', especially reading this in the context of the Unfinished Tales versions of their 2nd Age story where they knew Sauron as Annatar, Lord of Gifts; sometimes you just get these intriguing insights into their marriage is what I'm saying.

this note!

An addition to the manuscript after the words 'for we have dwelt here since the mountains were reared and the sun was young' reads: 'And I have dwelt here with him since days of dawn, when I passed over the seas with Melian of Valinor, and together we have fought the long defeat.

This is definitely written after Tolkien had created the idea of the rebellion of the Noldor and of Melian and Thingol. So having Galadriel come to Middle-earth before the rebellion, with Melian, is presumably a way to separate her from being one of the exiles, in a way Tolkien later returned to with his very late conceptions of Galadriel and Teleri Celeborn setting out for Middle-earth separately. But I am so fascinated by the idea that this version of Galadriel just upped and left Valinor, along with one of the Maiar, because she... fancied a change?

Doubly fascinating to me if Tolkien was already thinking of Celeborn as Sindar in that version, because that means both Melian and Galadriel married Sindar royalty after coming to Middle-earth. And Melian's husband fell in love with her and got enchanted by her presence enough that he stayed in place for two hundred years as the forest grew up around him and caused all his people to abandon their journey to Valinor while they searched for him. The idea of Galadriel watching this La Belle Dame Sans Merci type of fairy tale unfold before her and then deciding she wants one too feels both somewhat terrifying and also like the sort of thing she might do.

Anyway, leaving this here for now because I have some fanfic to write and it's getting long enough already. Next time: Rings and the Mirror!

Part 2 is here

[imagines--galore]

Hi! How are you? I saw your request for lotr characters are open, and was wondering if you could write something Legolas x reader. Where the reader is an elf (or maybe a dúnedain). And she and the prince elf had known each other since forever, but over time took separate paths because of their duties. And now after many years they are finally reunited for one last adventure. (It could be to help Frodo destroy to ring, or something entirely diferent).

Thank youuu!!

Pairing: Legolas x Reader

Rating || Genres || Warnings: T+ Romance if you squint.

Translation: Elen síla lúmenn' omentielvo, Legolas. - A star shines on the hour of our meeting, Legolas.

A/N: Cannot believe I missed this in my ask box. I hope you like this Anon! And I'm so sorry for being so late about it. Also I'm making the reader an elf.

The journey had been long and brutal, yet they had to have speed on their side. There was no time to be lost. The Uruk-Hai would be marching upon Helm's Deep soon. Thank the Valar, the weather had been in your favor. As Helm's Deep came into view, you couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement settle within you.

It had been so long since you had seen Legolas. Too long in fact. Since the beginning of the Quest for the Ring, you had only just missed him and his companions while you were having your own adventures. You were a mere Ranger of Lothlórien, yet somehow, the Prince of Mirkwood himself had deemed you worthy enough of his friendship. At first you had considered it an honor, but as time had passed, the two of you began to build a relationship built on a trust that ran deep.

You had been most disappointed when you had returned from a scouting trip, only to be told that the Prince had left with his comrades. Despite the urge to go after them, you had stayed. You had a duty to the Woods you called him and the Lord and Lady that ruled over them.

But when Elrond had made that call, calling elves to arm to help man fight against the darkness that had swept across their land, you had been one of the first to volunteer. Had been the first to pack your necessities and filled your quivers with the finest arrows, before shouldering the bow he had gifted you long ago.

It had been years and years since you had been in his presence, and you had realized, quite early on, that you felt his absence greatly. It was surprising to you at first, and yet, as time went by, it had become clear.

You were in love with Legolas. Perhaps had been the moment you had first met him.

But now would not be the time to discuss such matters. They were at war. A battle was to be had, and if the outcome was in their favor, you promised yourself you would act on your feelings and see what he would have to say.

As you and the rest of the elves marched into Helm's Deep, you were made aware of every man looking in your direction, or rather in the general direction of the army. You had barely lifted your head when your eyes caught sight of an achingly familiar head of golden silvery hair. You lowered your gaze once more, hiding your smile.

Haldir, your Captain, greeted King Théoden, and Aragorn thanked him for arriving so timely. You hadn't seen Aragorn in quite some time too, perhaps this would be a reunion for the ages? Aragorn embraced Haldir, as did Legolas, both visibly glad at their coming. You were standing right behind the Captain as the elves shifted in their position to look straight ahead.

It was then that Legolas looked from over Hadlir's shoulder. His eyes widened. Your name fell from his lips in a whisper. Despite the fact that you would be breaking a few rules, you glanced at your Captain who smiled and gave a small nod. Stepping forward, you reached up to pull back your hood. A few surprised gasps followed your act, the men having not expected a female to be amongst the elven army. What they didn't realize was that there were just as many females as there were male elves.

"Elen síla lúmenn' omentielvo, Legolas." You greeted him in Elvish, eyes wide and hopeful as you smiled at him. Another call of your name, this time louder before he embraced you. A small laugh fell from your lips as you wrapped your arms around him just as tightly, returning the embrace. He picked you up and swung you around once, before setting you back on solid ground.

Neither of you cared that there were so many eyes on you, yet everyone seemed to want to share in your joy. To catch a glimpse of a joyful moment such as two friends reuniting after so long. They were to face the ugliness of battle soon. This would be there last bit of beauty before that. Théoden called for the Captain of his Guard to show the elves where they would be positioned. Aragorn began to speak to Haldir of strategies, prompting you to glance in the direction of your Captain.

"You were never one to shy away from a fight were you?" Legolas asked, with his arms bracing your own, as if to reassure himself that you were still here. That you truly were in front of him. You smiled at him. "And let you have all the fun?" You teased, though you could sense the underlying worry in his eyes. He surged forward to press his lips to your brow, closing his eyes as if in a silent prayer.

"Stay safe my friend. We have much to speak of." He whispered against your skin, prompting you to nod and close your eyes, inhaling deeply as you memorized his scent once more. "That we do Legolas. I shall see you once we have won." You said with conviction. There was not a doubt in your heart that you would loose. Not when you had Legolas at your side.

With a parting glance, and a joining of the hands that lingered until you had to step away from him, you disappeared into the crowd to do get to your station, just as Legolas turned to take care of his own duties.

                                              -------------------------

A/N: Hmmmmm should i continue this?

[thedaughter-ofglory-blog]

If Elrond were to speak about Mykâ, daughter of Haldir, he would likely express admiration and respect for her character, wisdom, and the qualities that make her an integral part of Thranduil's court. Here’s how he might articulate his thoughts:

"Mykâ, daughter of Haldir, is a being of remarkable depth and grace, embodying the very essence of what it means to be a Silvan Elf. From her upbringing in Lothlórien, she has inherited not only the beauty of our people but also the wisdom that comes from a lineage steeped in loyalty and commitment.

Her keen intellect and perceptive nature set her apart, allowing her to navigate the complexities of court life with both poise and insight. I have observed how she approaches her role as a consultant to Thranduil with a sincerity that inspires trust and respect among those who serve alongside her. Her ability to foresee impending challenges and offer sound counsel is a gift that is invaluable, especially in these uncertain times.

Moreover, Mykâ's kindness and genuine concern for others resonate deeply within our community. She carries herself with a quiet strength, and her presence fosters a sense of unity and understanding among her peers. It is evident that she possesses a strong moral compass, which guides her actions and decisions, and it is this integrity that earns her the affection and loyalty of those around her.

Though the shadow of her mother's absence looms over her, Mykâ has transformed this loss into a source of strength, allowing it to deepen her empathy for others who share in the burdens of grief. In her, I see the potential to be a beacon of hope and resilience, traits that are much needed in our world today.

In short, to speak of Mykâ is to speak of a light that shines brightly, illuminating the path not only for herself but also for all who are fortunate enough to know her. She is a cherished member of our realm, and I hold her in the highest regard."

[ragingbookdragon]

I Will Love You Until The End Of The Ages

Haldir of Lothlórien x Reader

Word Count: 4.4K Warnings: None

Author's Note: Yeah...this kinda got away from me but I love this fucking elf just as much as I love Lindir so, have him <3 -Thorne

**********************************************************************

An ache spread through her body as she sprinted through the forest, wide-eyed and terrified. She’d barely managed to escape the carnage of her guards being slaughtered, only to be spotted by a rogue orc who’d alerted the others of her escaping. It would not have taken a master to understand exactly what they were going to do to her if they caught her. The thought only pushed her forward as she continued to run, trying her best to hop over logs and bushes in her way.

She’d fallen more than a few times, tripped over hidden tree roots, her shoes fallen off somewhere, feet bleeding from stepping on sharp stones and branches. Her dress had torn from slipping between large rocks to give distance, caught on sharp rose thorns, her legs and arms were cut up beyond belief, fabric strew down her chest, shoulder exposed, but she forbid herself from stopping. The elves of Lothlórien couldn’t have been farther than another mile, but she wasn’t fit for battle, or such bodily exertions and it was taking its toll.

She was practically unable to breathe as she huffed and puffed with raggedness. She could make it. All she had to do was keep going and she’d be upon Lothlórien. They would help her, or at least kill the orcs. If they killed her too, so be it, but at least she wouldn’t die before being defiled. She could make it, she could make it, she could—

A gasp escaped her as her foot caught under a raised root and she hit the ground, elbow burying itself into her side as she hit the ground—hard. The air was knocked from her lungs, and she wheezed as she rolled onto her side, crawling on the ground, trying to get to her feet, but her legs wouldn’t cooperate with her. She could hear them getting closer, their war cries only sealing her fate.

Tears flooded her eyes and as her lungs began to take in air, she hoarsely cried, “He—lp!” she pulled herself towards a tree. “Help!”

She turned, seeing the orcs come upon her and gathered in a half circle, snarling and salivating; tears streamed down her cheeks and though it made no difference she begged, “Mercy. Please, mercy.”

One of them reached for head and she recoiled, screaming bloody murder, her screeches startling the birds from the trees, then an arrow pierced the orc reaching for her and none had a moment to even react before a hail of them rained down. The orcs fell dead, gurgling on black blood and she twisted her head as she saw flashes of gray.

A group of elves appeared, and one knelt beside her. “Are you alright?”

She could barely see him through the tears in her eyes, but his blue eyes shown with a kindness; she reached forward, fumbling for the front of his armor and the second she connected with it, she burst into sobs and cradled herself against him. As if not used to such contact, he awkwardly patted her back before looking towards the elves of his guard and muttering something in his native tongue.

He continued to kneel with her until her sobs eased and she began to go slack against him; when he felt her go completely still, he pulled away slightly, catching sight of her unconscious expression. Pulling her a bit closer, he brought her into his arms and hefted her up with ease and turned his back on the carnage of the dead orcs before following the group deeper into the forest.

***

The air was clear, crisp, the scent of nature filling her lungs as she came to, the veil of night, stars, and the moon shining through the open arch of the window. She blinked, unsure of where she was but before she moved, someone said, “It would not be wise to move. Your wounds are still fresh.”

Startled, she twisted her head, seeing the same elf that had rescued her standing at the door. “Where…where am I?”

He shifted from the door and walked over, taking a seat beside her. “Lothlórien. My patrol heard commotion and your screams.” He gave her an awfully funny look, almost like she was an idiot—she did not like it in the slightest. “Why would you travel between Moria and Dol Goldur? All know it’s unsafe for travel for even the most experience of fighters.”

“The road we usually took had washed out from the rainstorm months ago. We had no choice.”

He cocked a brow. “Why are you travelling?”

She let out a sigh. “Gondor has called the lords of the land from their cities and towns. I am the only living heir to the lord of my land. It was my duty to go and represent my home.” He only made a noise in his throat, a low hum, and she looked at him. “What is your name, so I may thank you properly?”

“Haldir,” he answered. “I am Haldir of Lothlórien.”

“I owe you my life, Haldir of Lothlórien. Whatever you desire, if it is within my capabilities, please only speak it and I shall have it sent for immediately.”

“I find that difficult as your entire party is dead. There is no one to send away.” He immediately found his words too callous as her expression split into grief and she looked away. “I…I apologize. My words were uncalled for.”

“No,” she countered, shaking her head, tears falling down her cheeks. “They are dead, and it is all my fault.” She reached up, wiping her face. “Please forgive me for being so emotional.”

“You are in grieving,” Haldir replied. “There is no shame in expressing such emotion.” He gazed at her. “What is your name?”

She met his gaze, and he felt an awfully funny flutter at the sight of her saddened expression, dewy lashes, and full lips. “I am (Y/N) of Wintergrave. The city to the northwest, just above Emyn Uial and east of the Blue Mountains.”

Haldir tipped his head, bringing a hand to his chest. “I welcome you, Lady (Y/N).”

“Oh, thank you,” she replied, sitting up with a grimace to try and offer the same gesture, though she let out a gasp as something in her side felt like it was splitting.

He gently rose from his seat, pushing her shoulder back down to the bedding. “I have already told you, it is not wise to move. Your wounds are still very fresh.”

“Forgive me,” she whispered. “I just wanted to extend the same kindness you have given me.”

“If you wish to, not harming yourself would be a good start.”

She cracked a smile and laid her head back onto the pillow. “Thank you, Haldir.”

He offered her a polite look. “I shall return with a healer. You should rest.”

“Yes, of course.”

***

Word had been sent back to Wintergrave of their Lady’s untimely run-in with the orcs, the bodies of her men had as well been prepared and sent back for burial. She’d met with Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn, expressing many apologies for imposing on them as such. The two elves had found it rather odd that a human who’d been saved and given sanctuary was so apologetic and felt like such a burden for it. Of course, Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn had given her more than enough relief and allowed her to stay as long as she needed to recover her strength. The Lady of Lothlórien had even met with her in her room and spoke of the horrors of the orcs and how nightmarish the mind could become after such an attack—she’d expressed to (Y/N) that she could stay until she felt fit to travel and when it was then time, Lady Galadriel would have a group of Marchwardens accompany her to Gondor. (Y/N) had cried and thanked her profusely for her kindness, also extending the same offer that she’d given to Haldir, if Lady Galadriel had ever needed anything all she had to do was speak it.

When she’d finally been able to move without pain from her wounds, which had been many—bruised and cut up feet, legs, and arms, even a rather severe cut along her cheek that was more than likely going to scar—she had taken to exploring what was allowed of Lothlórien that she could. Lady Galadriel had, instead of giving her a lady-in-waiting, assigned Haldir to watch over her, given leave to stay in Lothlórien for some time.

She was rather surprised to see him when she was sitting under one of the great arched platforms, sipping a flavored fruit tea that she only assumed grew in the land here. She had the teacup raised to her lips, watching the fireflies lighting up the night when someone appeared in her peripheral, scaring her half to death.

Jumping, she tried not to spill her tea as she set the cup down and looked up, seeing Haldir standing there, surprisingly with no armor like he usually wore. “Haldir,” she greeted with a smile. “You scared me half to death. Do you not know it is impolite to sneak up on someone, let alone a lady?”

“Apologies,” he said but he didn’t sound too apologetic. “Light feet are something not so easily forgotten when taught since birth.” He gestured to the seat across from her. “May I?”

“Oh, yes! Please!” she chirped, already pouring a cup of tea for him. “Lady Galadriel has been so kind to allow me to stay here in Lothlórien. But I fear I may be overstaying.”

“While it is odd for a human to stay for long periods of time, her ladyship isn’t one to force an innocent to leave.” He picked up his cup. “She has allowed you to stay until you feel ready for leave.”

“Yes,” she agreed, once more looking out. “I almost do not wish to leave Lothlórien though.”

“You do not?”

“Of course not. This place is ethereal. The people even more so.” She looked back at him. “I’ve always found elves so fascinating. Such long periods of life, so graceful and elegant, a beautiful culture and history.” A small, almost embarrassing smile came across her face. “Do not tell anyone I said this, but I’ve always tried to emulate such grace and elegance. To be wise and respectful like such.”

Haldir gazed at her for a long moment—he’d not met many humans who were so modest and ungreedy like (Y/N) was, it was almost refreshing to find such a human. “I’ve not met many humans like you,” he said before he thought about it and his cheeks warmed when she looked at him with surprise.

“Like me?”

He cleared his throat. “I meant, kind and respectful. Many humans are greedy and disrespectful. Loud…and abrasive.”

She frowned. “Yes, my fellow men can often be swayed by earthly desires instead of their honor.” She met his gaze. “I hope I have offered some amnesty on that part. Or perhaps a better view of what some of us can be.”

“You have,” he answered, sipping his tea before he said anything else more foolish.

(Y/N) inhaled and exhaled, as if the world was no longer on her shoulders. “Haldir, what would you be doing if you were not called to be a Marchwarden?”

He blinked in surprise—he’d never given much thought to it. “I…I confess I do not know. Being a Marchwarden is all I have ever known. Even my brothers are such.”

She perked up at that. “You have brothers!” her face split in joy. “Oh, what is it like? I was a lone child to my parents.”

Haldir suddenly went monotone as he replied, “Annoying. My brothers are…quite a handful even on the best days.” A laugh escaped her, and she covered her mouth to hide the giggles and Haldir found himself smiling along with her; when she had calmed, he asked, “What of you, Lady (Y/N)? If you were not the Lady of Wintergrave, what would you be doing?”

“I think…I think I would be a writer,” she answered. “I have always loved listening and telling stories. My mother used to tell me I spent more time with my nose in books than I did learning about how to govern my people.” She felt her cheeks warm, and she glanced at the reflection in her cup. “Stories…allowed me to immerse myself into the freedom I did not have a child.”

“You were not free?”

“I was lonely…and without many friends. Though my people look after one another, there is still a divide in the classes. My family wasn’t detached per say, but we weren’t in constant contact with the common people.” She seemed almost forlorn as she murmured, “My only friends were the heroes in the stories I read.” Almost as if her sadness wasn’t there, she smiled and admitted, “I used to imagine that the heroes were with me in daily life. I would talk to them in my mind and go through life with their council.”

Haldir smiled, but it was rather sad. “I’m sorry that you did not have a friend to call your own as a child, Lady (Y/N).”

Her eyes were kind as she nodded. “Thank you, Haldir.” Taking a leap of faith, she smiled at him. “Perhaps it is lucky that I can call you, a friend now.”

“Indeed.” He smiled back at her, and her heart fluttered at it.

***

“Mae.”

“Mae.”

“G’ovan.”

“G’ovan.”

“Nen.”

“Nen.”

“Good. Now together. Mae g’ovannen.”

“Mae go-oven.”

Haldir let out a sigh and pinched the bridge of his nose. “That wasn’t even close.”

“It was too!” (Y/N) retorted.

“How on earth did you turn g’ovannen to go-oven?” his expression pinched. “It doesn’t even make any sense.”

She scowled at him and retorted, “I asked you to teach me elvish, not begrudge me.”

“Well, I would teach you my tongue if yours could work properly enough to speak it.”

A huff escaped her. “You are most rude, Haldir. So mean to a kind lady.”

He narrowed his eyes at her and pointed. “You are anything but kind.”

“I take great offense to that.”

“As you should.”

She glared at him, and he her until their scowls gave way to humored smiles and they laughed, leaning on one another.

“Perhaps a break is in store for us,” Haldir suggested, and she nodded, rising from her seat.

“I think that is a splendid idea, lest we begin screaming at one another in our native tongues.”

Haldir held out his arm and she took it, letting him escort her to their usual tea spot. As they sat down, a few elves decorated the table with a teapot and two cups along with sweet cookies for them. “Ni ‘lassui En,” Haldir murmured with a nod, and she smiled at them, tipping her head.

“Thank you!”

As he poured their cups, she gazed at him, taking in the sight of the elf at peace. He was rather handsome. Long, beautiful blonde hair, strong nose and jaw, gorgeous blue eyes. She couldn’t deny an attraction to him, but that was just physical. Haldir was a good man. Loyal, honorable, kind, and fiercely protective of his home and those he loved.

“Is there something on my face?”

She blinked, cheeks warming, and she looked down. “No, my apologies for staring.”

“I am not offended,” he simply answered and turned the plate, offering the strawberry tart.

“How did you—”

“You always eat them first when they are offered.”

“I…” she smiled. “I wasn’t aware you were paying such attention.”

Haldir’s cheeks tinted crimson, and he cleared his throat. “Yes, well, it is good to make notice of your surroundings and what others engage in.”

“Uh huh,” she answered cheekily, smiling through his attempt at a scowl; she sipped her tea, asking, “Have you heard word of the Fellowship lately?”

“They are traveling to Isengard.” He looked grim. “I have not heard such great news if I am entirely honest.”

Her expression turned solemn, and she reached forward, placing a hand on his. “Whatever happens, I know you will do what I right by honor, Haldir.”

He looked at her, gently turning his hand up to gently thumb at her wrist. “I confess, (Y/N), I have come to enjoy our time together. These last few months have been…the greatest joy I’ve come to know.”

“As have I, Haldir,” she replied softly. “I do believe at this point I have entirely overstayed my welcome, but I find that when I am making a mind to leave…you, come to my mind.”

“Truly?”

She swallowed thickly and admitted, “I confess to you, Haldir, I…” she let out a sigh and steeled her nerves. “I am withholding feelings for you. In fact, every time I see and speak to you, my feelings only nurture.” She suddenly felt so exposed and rose from her seat, walking to the rail, gazing out at the nighted forest. “I know it is unwise to feel this way for you. You, an immortal, and me, a mortal. It is doomed from start to finish.” Her expression turned dejected. “Still though, I cannot feel the desire to remove you from my heart. You have stolen it.”

She waited for rejection, for laughter, for disbelief. Anything, but when his hand came to her lower back and he took her chin in his other hand, turning her face to him, she was surprised to see a look of fondness on it.

“Haldir…?”

He tipped his head down, lips brushing hers as he whispered, “Lady (Y/N), might I bestow a kiss to you?”

“I…please,” she pleaded, shutting her eyes and he sealed their lips, her body turning to face him as she raised her arms, hands winding around his neck as his wound around her waist.

Haldir felt his heart beating wildly in his chest, in his pulse like he was in battle, but this was so much more adrenaline-pumping than a fight. He knew she needed air, he did too, but the feeling of her lips against his made his heart soar and only when she tipped her head down, panting against his jaw, did Haldir come to the realization that he was madly in love with the woman he rescued all those months ago.

“I,” she breathed deeply. “I hope I am not naïve in assuming that this means you also feel for me?”

He took her chin in his hand again, pressing his lips to her eyelids and then her lips, once, twice, thrice, and murmured, “I would march to Mordor itself it meant you would be waiting for me.”

She giggled girlishly and shifted in his grip. “Well, you certainly know how to make a woman smile.”

“The only woman who matters.”

“Haldir…many will judge us, your people and mine, let alone the other races.”

He nodded solemnly. “Then I will declare that my love for you is endless.”

She looked up at him. “You know I will die before you…yes?”

Again, he nodded, though this time it looked as if the air had been taken from him; he took a breath. “Even so, I will love you until the end of the age.”

(Y/N) smiled up at him. “I…I love you, Haldir.”

“Melin gin,” Haldir professed, though he seemed upset.

“You are downhearted.”

He nodded. “Lord Elrond has come. I am to lead an army to Helm’s Deep and assist the fight against the orcs.”

“No…”

“I must,” he said. “It is my duty.” She frowned, tried to turn her head away but he wouldn’t let her. “Él gûr,” he murmured. “You have loved me enough to meet me in this age, love me enough to know I will come back.”

“But what if you do not?”

Haldir gazed at her, thumbing her lip. “If I do not, I want you to do your duty. I want you to find love again and live the life with someone like we wanted to.”

Tears flooded her eyes. “But I want it with you.” She grasped at his tunic. “I want that life with you, Haldir.”

“Then I will do my duty and come back to you.” He searched her gaze. “Melin gin, (Y/N).”

She felt her lips wobble, but she promised in return, “Melin gin, Haldir.”

***

Word had reached Lothlórien that many of the elves sent had fallen in battle, yet no word had ever been spoken of Haldir. It had her one pins and needles, many times seeking council with Lady Galadriel who merely listened to her worries and commanded, or urged her, to keep heart, that evil could just as easily take over a heart in grief.

She somehow managed to steel herself and when the trumpets sounded, signaling the return of the soldiers, she rushed down with many of the healers, waiting to know if her love had returned or if he had perished. She watched as soldier after soldier, the ones that had survived, passed by, yet she never saw Haldir. Her heart ached in her chest, and she hurried into the thicket of soldiers being attended to.

“Please, someone tell me where Haldir is!” she pleaded. “Has he fallen! I must know!”

Many of the elves stared at her, brows pinched like they couldn’t understand why she was so upset, but one stood among the fray and caught her attention.

“Haldir cuina.”

She shook her head. “I don’t…? I don’t understand.”

The elf frowned, gesturing around like he was searching for the word before muttering, “Life.”

(Y/N)’s eyes widened, and she grasped his arms. “Haldir is alive? He lives?” The elf nodded and she laughed tearfully, relief flooding her body as she knew her love was alive.

***

It was a rather beautiful ceremony, seeing Aragorn crowned king, Arwen, his beautiful bride beside him. She stood next to the other Lords and Ladies of Middle Earth, pledging their alliance to the king. And while the ceremony was one for the memories, the feast that had come after was one for the ages.

Laughter, joy, and happy tears escaped the members of the palace, the esteemed fellowship all at the front with Aragorn and Arwen. Even Lady Galadriel and Lord Celeborn had shown up and she waved at them from her spot on the table, them giving knowing smiles in return. She still hadn’t seen Haldir, but no one, especially Legolas or Aragorn had yet to pull her aside and tell her otherwise, so she held out hope that they were simply missing each other at different turns in the same city.

Air called to her after many rounds of wine and ale and she was given permission to go to the ledge of the higher quarters, which she appreciated greatly, extending her thanks to the King and Queen.

(Y/N) stand at the balcony, watching the parading and partying in the street. Rebuilding would certainly come soon, but for now, the greatest evil known had been vanquished and the people would look forward to a future of happiness. She look to the heavens, closing her eyes as she said a quiet prayer to the elven Gods, that they would send Haldir to her.

As soon as she finished, she opened her eyes, and seeing something in her peripheral, spun, screeching like a bat at the scare. However, a hand slammed, carefully, against her mouth followed by, “Él gûr, be at peace. It is me!”

She blinked and gaped at Haldir, suddenly surging forward with ecstatic joy as she latched onto him. “Haldir!” she burst out.

He laughed, wrapping his arms around her. “I have come home to you, (Y/N).” She pulled away, tears in her eyes and he sighed fondly at her. “You are such a crybaby.”

“I’ve waited so long for you, my love,” she confessed in tears, struggling to wipe the seemingly endless flood of them away. “So long I waited for you to come home. On the worst nights I feared someone would tell me they found your body and I would have to go on without you.”

Haldir frowned. “I’m sorry for keeping you so long, él gûr. It was never my intention.” He gently pushed some hair behind her ear. “The war was long, and traveling was difficult. But I have held my promise to come home.”

She tipped her head to the side. “You will still have me? And a life with me? Despite the hurt in our future?”

He inhaled deeply and murmured, “I have thought long about this, (Y/N). And of all I know, I know this the best—we are never promised happiness. If we find it, especially love, we must hold tight to it and never let go.” He gazed at her. “You will inevitably die before me. But I know that however many years we get with each other, we will love and hold fast to it.” Tears dripped down her cheeks and he leaned forward, kissing them away. “Do not cry, él gûr.”

“These are tears of happiness,” (Y/N) replied with a laugh, and looked at him, taking his hands in hers. “I promise by the light of this moon, that I will love and cherish you for all of the time I am given, Haldir of Lothlórien. May the love we have bloom for ages and never die.”

Haldir leaned down and nuzzled her nose. “And I promise to you, (Y/N) of Wintergrave, that so long as I live, even when you are gone, I will remember and hold dear to the love we nurtured.” He smiled at her. “And I will love and cherish our children and teach them always of their mother who loved them more than the world.”

“We aren’t even married yet!” she spluttered, and his smile turned into a smirk.

“Are you trying to tell me that you do not wish to have a family? Él gûr, I am hurt by this.”

“That is not what I said!”

“I am fairly certain it is.”

“It is not!”

The night in Gondor was warm, joy filled the streets, love filled the hearts of the people together, hobbits, dwarves, elves, and men had once again forged a bond deeper than blood. And they all looked to a brighter future the next day—and perhaps another wedding!

[clovenly]

𝐇𝐄𝐀𝐃𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐍𝐎𝐍 ; their ideal date ── elves, men, dwarves and hobbits!

𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐒: ᵃʳᵃᵍᵒʳⁿ, ᵃʳʷᵉⁿ, ᵇᵃʳᵈ, ᵇᶦˡᵇᵒ, ᵇᵒʳᵒᵐᶦʳ, ᵈʷᵃˡᶦⁿ, ᵉˡˡᵃᵈᵃⁿ, ᵉˡʳᵒʰᶦʳ, ᵉˡʳᵒⁿᵈ, ᵉᵒᵐᵉʳ, ᵉᵒʷʸⁿ, ᵉʳᵉˢᵗᵒʳ, ᶠᵃʳᵃᵐᶦʳ, ᶠᶦˡᶦ, ᶠʳᵒᵈᵒ, ᵍᵃˡᵃᵈʳᶦᵉˡ, ᵍᶦᵐˡᶦ, ᵍˡᵒʳᶠᶦⁿᵈᵉˡ, ʰᵃˡᵈᶦʳ, ᵏᶦˡᶦ, ˡᵉᵍᵒˡᵃˢ, ˡᶦⁿᵈᶦʳ, ᵐᵉʳʳʸ, ᵖᶦᵖᵖᶦⁿ, ˢᵃᵐ, ᵗᵃᵘʳᶦᵉˡ, ᵗʰᵒʳᶦⁿ, ᵗʰʳᵃⁿᵈᵘᶦˡ

[ THE GARDENS ] the flowers are especially beautiful in the spring, especially after rainfall in the night ── they love to take you on strolls through the gardens ( fields, courtyards ) and gather you a single flower, pressing it between the pages of your favourite book to serve as a memento of the time you've spent together.

arwen, bilbo, elrond, erestor, fili, frodo, legolas, lindir, thranduil

[ A PICNIC ] small sandwiches, and fresh strawberries ── they'll compliment how pretty your hair looks as it shines in the morning sun. it's a simple, intimate affair, and though not particularly adventurous, they enjoy the closeness of it. they'll bring your favourite sweet treats ( cakes, tarts, sweet-breads, pastries ) in the hopes of seeing you smile.

bard, elladan, eomer, faramir, galadriel, merry, pippin, sam

[ SPARRING ] it's not the most traditional of dates, but the rush of adrenaline creates a completely unique sense of intimacy ── it quenches their need for adventure, for activity, while still allowing them to spend time with you. they love the flush of your cheeks and the look of determination in your eyes as you swear you're going to beat them this time.

aragorn, boromir, dwalin, elrohir, eowyn, glorfindel, gimli, haldir, kili, tauriel, thorin

[fantasies-fairytales-n-fics]

Thranduil and Josie Pt. 176- My Bloody Valentine

Summary: Josie sings a tune that falls upon astounded ears. Moose, The Elvenking and Thranduil battle. Josie fears she is losing her own battle. She and Lola have a heart to heart. Lola attempts to help. A spoonful of warlock magic makes the medicine go down. Rahl feels the wrath of his kin. A heroic act is foiled. Love is declared. Charles and Lola conspire. Another is missing. She-devil alert. Lola is down for the count. Rahl is too, for a hot mess of a moment. REDRUM!!! Rahl "shockingly" submits. Thranduil senses a sinister shift deep within his very soul.

*Chapter Warnings* BLOOD BLOOD BLOOD! Violent death depictions!!!! sexual and strong language, angst, mentions of rape,

Stories Stories Stories Masterlist

Josie returned to her chambers with tear swollen eyes and excessively panting after running from one end of the castle to the other without a moment of rest. As she opened the door, clutching her anxiety ridden chest, Lola sprung to her feet with worry. "Josie, where have you been? I need to tell you about...are...you alright? You've been crying."

"How perceptive of you." Josie snapped and made her way to Leean's cradle, peering down at her dreaming daughter.

"Would you like to talk about it? Is it because of Haldir?"

Josie's eyes rolled as she kicked her hated heels off and poured a glass of wine, offering none to Lola. "Do not speak to me of that exasperating elf. In fact, do not speak to me at all."

"I...I'm sorry, I...I just thought you should know I was told that Haldir left. To where, I do not know."

"Hmmph. Good riddance." she scoffed and knocked back her drink. "You can leave too."

"L...leave? But there is more that I need to tell y..."

"There is nothing more that I care to hear. I want to be alone with my daughter."

"Did...you find my fath....Darken Rahl? Is that what has you so upset?"

Josie sharply turned to her. "Have your ears gone deaf?? LEAVE."

"Y..yes miss." Lola squeaked and quickly departed.

Instantly, Josie tugged at the zipper of her dress and tore it off as if she were on fire. After slipping on new attire and touching up her tear streaked face, she returned to her daughter's cradle and sat upon the bed to view her once more. Besides Legolas, Leeanduil was the only way she could see Thranduil's face clearly.

It had been pointless in refreshing her makeup, for she was now in tears once more as she watched her six week old little girl sleep, frightened she would soon lose all the love she had left for her child and her King.

In desperation to stay in the moment with her feelings, she began to softly sob her way through a song of relevance that had strangely came to mind. Closing her eyes as she did so, she envisioned Thranduil holding Leean.

"Close your eyes, give me your hand. Darling, do you feel my heart beating? Do you understand? Do you feel the same? Am I only dreaming? Is this burning an eternal flame? I believe it's meant to be. Darling, I watch you when you are sleeping. You belong with me. Say my name. Sun shines through the rain. A whole life so lonely and then you come and ease the pain. I don't want to lose this feeling...."

Thranduil and his company had resumed their journey alongside the River Running after a brief rest, for the Elvenking strongly believed there was no rest for the wicked and each moment that passed on reclaiming what was his, his newly acquired impatience grew as did the blackness of his tainted heart.

As he traveled in silence and solitude atop his great elk at the lead of his elven army, he had nothing better to do than be inside his own head and in his relaxation, it opened a doorway he was ever so certain he had permanently secured.

What he heard earned his prompt attention and brought Moose to a screeching halt, for the elk had heard it too. The resounding angelic voice of his emotional Queen, just as he had heard her cries for help for months upon end before he had discovered her in his realm the night she escaped her abusive captor.

Thranduil's eyes widened as the breeze simultaneously washed her cherry essence all over him. What was happening? He did not permit nor want the intrusion and the Elvenking was about to terminate the connection, but the elk who adored the Queen, had other plans.

Launching up onto his hind legs, the beast reached for the tangerine sky with peddling hooves, bayed a raging roar of hot steam into the chilled December air. The faithful and loyal companion had never defied his elven master, but the stag knew of the malevolence that consumed the lost Ellon and he felt compelled to enforce the same protection that Thranduil would give him when needed.

"Moose! Dorth- cín near!" (Stay your place), Thranduil bellowed with command, struggling with the reigns to control the disobedient animal of substantial strength as Josephine's continuing tune fueled his rebellion.

His hooves heavily reconnected with the ground, stomping about and turning the Elvenking in circles as he vigorously huffed, bobbing and shaking his head until Thranduil, with great agility, swiftly dismounted and fearlessly stood beneath the steaming snout no one would dare approach.

Thranduil's moonstone eyes softly gazed into the largely round and moistened chocolate eyes of the normally gentle giant and placed his hand upon his lengthy snout, instantly calming him. This continued until Josephine's voice and scent dissipated into the wind.

Thranduil calmly spoke, offering words of comfort as he stroked the brawny beast. "I understand your pain old friend and I will not dismiss it because it is real. But keep in mind that pain causes weakness. There is a war ahead of us that must not be compromised by such emotion. You must find a place within you to contain it's existence."

In turn, Moose shared his telepathic thoughts to his master before bowing in submission for Thranduil to remount. "The true war lies somewhere within you. You must find that place and fight for what you love, for that is what's real. Do not dismiss nor underestimate your own suffering. Pain also causes strength."

Arching a bushy brow and clenching his jaw, Thranduil's stance stiffened as he lifted his chin, narrowing his eyes downward at the very wise and valiant old elk. "Undauntingly bold are you?" he snarled as his lip curled into a pleased grin. "From one King to another, I commend and respect your lion-hearted spirit."

As the journey carried on, Jareth's blood, paired with the power of the citrine ring, intensified the Elvenking's battle against the eternal flame burning in the shallow of Thranduil's very soul and Josephine's heartfelt song and own eternal flame had been an accelerant, much like the moonstones when united.

Anger now consumed the dark elf. Discreetly he held his breath, willing the flame into suffocation and soon, his bottom lip began to quiver and his eyes glistened of tears but it was not for lack of air, for elves could hold their breath for an inscrutable amount of time. It was because not even his will or his own magic was strong enough to fight the power of twin flames. The darkened Elvenking had once vowed he would never allow Josephine back into his heart after her prior invasions but Thranduil's pain was an underestimated strength just as Moose's percipience proved.

Strong and silent sobbing had now overtaken Josephine for she was fearful of when her moment of clarity would rescind. It was as if her tears temporarily cleansed the venom but she knew she could not cry forever and a knock upon the door ceased the waterworks altogether.

"Just a moment." she called out as she wiped her face and soaked up the tears from her eyes with a tissue.

"Who's there?' she whispered against the door.

"It's Lola, my lady. May I return?"

Feeling bad for how she treated her faithful friend, Josie opened the door and broke down once again at the sight of her.

Lola's loving arms quickly wrapped around her. "Please, come sit and tell me what ails you."

"It's...everything." Josie sniffled as they sat across from each other in the living quarters of the chamber to not wake Leean. "I'm losing myself Lola and everyone I love."

"You have not lost me? Nor your daughter. And Legolas is still here." she sweetly assured, still feeling the sting of the Prince's harsh 180.

"But for how long? I do not know how long I have until I am not me at all anymore and turn on everyone. Look what I've done to Haldir. He must be disgusted with me to have actually left. He was the only one who ever kept his promise to never leave me and Garrett...well...I get it now, why he left this time. He's ashamed of who he is. The dark side of him that he never wanted me to see. I guess that's why he chose to reunite with Kate and now that's what I am becoming. Rahl's venom is reeling me in and he...he was so cruel to me earlier."

"Of course he's cruel. He's a dark warlock lord. Wait...so you did see him?"

"His persona anyways. He..he carried Stephane's image because he was weak but..." Josie began to sob again. "But he's never coming back either. He's my only hope of being me again and I don't know how to revive him. He's as lost to Rahl as I am. My soul is turning black like his."

"Nonsense. You are a lady of light and if anything, you have the strongest love keeping you you right there in that cradle and you hold her father your heart. He will always be there if you seek him out."

"You are wrong Lola. He is gone. I haven't felt him in weeks. He doesn't come to me anymore. For a moment, I thought I had smelled him, even heard his voice in the garden this morning, but it was only the trickery of that evil Ravenna to weaken me and take my blood. Thranduil is only a memory now that's fading."

Lola took her hand. "I am so sorry. I cannot imagine a life without the man you truly love."

"Can't you?"

"I...I'm sorry?"

"Legolas. It is he you love is he not?"

Lola blushed, but her eyes saddened. "Josie...it does not matter. His love for you is quite obvious."

"And as you know, as does he, I do not return his love in the way he desires. His heart has been broken and my own heart breaks because of that. He now protects it. He keeps you at arms length not of his own wish but give him time. It is also obvious that he cares deeply for you. I've seen it. I feel you can mend his heart and restore his faith in love. And know this Lola...if anything is to ever happen to me, I have asked Legolas to be his sister's guardian. I would like it very much if you were to be at his side and I believe that will happen someday. I trust you with her life Lola."

"Josie...I...I do not know what to say. I would be honored. Of course I would look after her, guard her with my life but it will not be necessary, for nothing is going to happen to you and I am going to do my damnedest to see to it."

Lola hopped to her feet. "I will be back shortly."

"Lola?? What are you going to...."

Lola smiled as she opened the door. A smile that held a hint of wickedness. "Get some rest."

Rahl had refreshed himself out in the snow covered gardens, breathing in the fresh crisp air to void out the angelica leaves he had inhaled, but Stephane's bothersome image still remained. Regardless, he was feeling more of his wicked self, so he decided it was time to have a little fun. As he sat in the dining hall, sipping on some wicked whiskey with a wicked grin, he closed his eyes and mumbled. "Paybacks are a bitch like you."

A knock sounded upon Catherine's door. Fearing it was Charles or possibly even Rahl, she froze solid in her seat, hoping whomever it was would go away.

"Mother, are you in there? I really need to speak with you."

Catherine sighed in relief to hear her son Francis' voice and sprinted to the door, yanking him inside. "Francis, where on earth have you been?!! Darken Rahl has seized Stephane's body and he attacked your brother last night. His own son Francis!! Do you have any idea what he will do to us if he finds out you did not burn the real letter from Thranduil??? Stephane already despises you so I assure you that Rahl does too!"

"Mother, that is why I am here. I think you should sit down."

"You want me to sit?? At a time like this???"

"Mother....SIT DOWN!" the Lake Town King barked.

Practically jumping out of her skin at his clamored command, she did as he said.

"A..al..alright. I am sitting. There is no need to shout at me. It is not like you."

"I think he knows. I think...I have been poisoned."

"W..what did you say??"

At that very moment, tears of blood as red as her gown began to pour from Francis' eyes and as Catherine ran to him, he collapsed in her arms.

"Francis...FRANCIS!! SOMEBODY HELP!! HURRY!!!" she cried.

Her shill screams were heard by Francis' Queen and two servants who had been down the hall tending to the seam on Mary's gown and as they raced into the room, they were all quite dumbfounded at what they were witnessing.

"Mary!! Mary, your King has been poisoned. He's dying!!"

"What???" Mary frantically asked and scoured the room with her worried eyes only to see Catherine leaning over as if she were holding something, only there was nothing there. "Catherine, your son is in the city."

When Catherine looked back at her hands, they were empty. It was then that she believed she had just experienced a premonition.

"I...I have just had a vision."

Rahl opened his eyes and swallowed down the remaining whiskey in his goblet, then he smiled from ear to ear as he released a deep cackle. "Oh Catherine, indeed you did. Tick tock you wretched shrew. I am far from done with you."

As he rounded the corner, making his way back to his chambers, he almost collided with a fuming Lola.

"You!!" she screeched and belted him across the face with a hearty slap strong enough to impair his balance.

Seemingly thrilled by her bout of rage, he smiled. "Well now, if it isn't my long lost daughter...Lola."

"I am not YOUR daughter. I am Stephane's daughter you miserable excuse for a man!!"

"Oh but we are one in the same as everyone likes to debate against. Considering I have not seen you in well over a decade, what have I done to spark such madness, which by the way, I highly enjoy. Like father, like dau..."

"Oh shut up! I am nothing like you nor do I intend to be. Dare you really ask of your insidious indiscretions??? Shall we begin with my mother?? You defiled her!! You held her captive! You forced her to give up my sister Sarah and now she is in the clutches of another vile monster!"

"Josselyn is the only one at fault for what happened to your poor sister. If she had remained here, Harker would never have gotten his wolfy hold on her."

"You mean just like he got his wolfy hold upon me WHILE I was here???"

"Stephane is to blame for your disappearance, not I!"

"And Stephane is the one who saved me! Now give me back my father or I'll..."

"You'll....what? little...girllll. " Rahl snarled into her face.

Lola cringed at his peppery breath and fumbled through her words in fear, knowing that she had no magic power, or at least she didn't know how to use it if she had and it surely would have been no match for his. "Just give him back. Please. And leave Josie alone."

"Ahhhhh, so that's what your empty threat is really about. Sweet little Josephine. Even if I wanted to do something for her, I cannot, nor would I! Her soul is rotting and she will soon be mine and you my dear child. You will be next....and then Charles and Bash...I think you get the idea. One happy little family we all will be."

Emerging from the darkness of a stairwell, stood the Elvenprince with his arrow aimed at the dark lord of Dorwinion. "Over my dead body! Back away from the girl before I put another dose of poison into your arm!"

"Legolas!!" Lola shrieked with both happiness and fright.

Rahl's eyes slitted at the elf as he bravely stepped in front of the spiked iron threat, placing it against his chest. "You dare to raise your bow to me yet once again on my own lands. I should have ended you the first time. Your cat like stealth is admired but your skill is of no speed nor match for my magic."

It was faster than the speed of light and unseen to the eyes, the morphing of a man into the largest beast of a cat Lola and Legolas had ever witnessed and in a split second, the elf's bow was merely splinters on the ground, completely obliterated by the striking force of the prodigious paws and razor sharp claws.

As Lola's hysteric screams echoed through the hall, Legolas pulled his blade from the holster on his back, but that too was swiped away in an instant by the fierce strike of the panther's other powerful paw, then the ferocious feline pounced, pinning Legolas beneath it's suffocating weight.

Lola bolted to the knife, swiftly picking it up and clutching both hands around the handle, pointing it straight at the snarling snout before her. The mirror-like blade swayed and shook as she gasped through her hyperventilating breaths. Her gaping eyes fluttered out streams of tears that began to blind her vision.

"Lola! Back...away!!!" Legolas pointlessly pleaded as she became paralyzed with fear.

The monster sized head raised up as did the hair on the scruff of the beast's neck clear to the end of it's tail. Face to face, blazing yellow eyes glared directly into hers. The ears went back and a ghastly growl rolled up it's throat, then the mouth opened, revealing pearly fangs of death as a scorching roar laced of pepper blew Lola's hair straight out behind her.

She stumbled back from the force and the fear, dropping the weapon and before she could even regain her balance, she was suddenly reprimanded by one of many warlock guards and Rahl, still in Stephane's image, was standing before her once more.

"Seize him and take him to the dungeons to rot for an attempt on my life!" Rahl commanded.

"What about the girl?" a guard asked as Legolas was detained and his bloodied wrists chained while two other guards poked blades to his back.

It was apparent to Rahl that the two cared for one another and it sickened him to his core. "Leave her to me. Take him away."

As Legolas was promptly escorted away, Lola attempted to run after the Prince, but Rahl roughly clutched her arm. She screamed, cried and struggled something fierce but it was futile. "Nooooooo!!!!! Legolas!!! NOOO!!!! Let him go!!!! I....I love you Legolas!!!!!!"

Just as they were turning the corner, Legolas halted and glanced back in shock from her words. Their eyes shared an intense moment and then...he was gone.

"NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!" she cried again and dropped to her knees in defeat.

"Oh get up you whimpering fool." Rahl barked, scorned by her actions. "This is all your fault and now, your punishment will be to reap what you have sown. Go on. Go cry your little eyes out like the little girl that you are. You are an embarrassment and a disgrace. I will handle you later just as I have your mother!!"

"Wh...what??? What did you do to my mother!!!" she raged and lunged at him, only to be shoved back to the ground.

"Still, you do not learn. What am I to do with you?"

"Father!! Leave my sister alone!"

Rahl spun around to see the glowing eyes of his son Charles. "THIS again. I just want to go back to my chambers and have some fucking sex! Is that so much to ask??? It seems there was too much sparing of the rod and spoiling of the children in your upbringings, but who says you cannot teach adolescents new tricks?"

Raising his hand, an electrical bolt charged across the hall and knocked Charles onto his back.

"You're mad!!!" Lola shouted and ran to the boy she once crushed on as he had her before either knew of her paternal parentage.

"Damn right I am mad! Now both of you, get out of my sight!"

Lola helped a stunned but seemingly unscathed Charles to his feet and quickly, they both hurried off with Charles leading Lola back to Bash's chambers to check on his condition as he filled her in about his cat scratch fever. but when they arrived, their warlock uncle was also missing.

"Now what do we do Charles??? Who is going to help us?? My mother is missing too."

"I know. I have already searched high and low for her to heal Bash, but I fear it may be too late."

"We need to free Legolas! They took him to the dungeons!"

"Yes, I passed them in the halls and that is when I heard you screaming. He will be heavily guarded. There is no way for us to free him."

Lola thought for a moment as she nervously paced. "What about your powers?? You could trick them or something."

"I could...IF I wanted to risk the wrath of my father once more."

"Charles, you heard him. He is going to be...ummm... busy."

"And what about after? I've already used my powers upon his guards once when he was still himself and that did not go well. Now that he is the dark half, can you imagine how that will turn out? I am not strong enough to challenge him alone."

"It would seem you were more than capable last night in the forest?"

"Yes Lola, but I had a small army with me AND he was only temporarily defeated because I wounded him, which I did not enjoy doing. I will not hurt him again."

"I understand. I do not want to hurt him either. He's my father too."

"Yeah...that is still so weird." Charles added, feeling humiliated and even angry. "You and I grew up together and none of us were the wiser that we were siblings...wait...what about you Lola? Have you tried to see if you have any power? Surely you must."

"No...and if I do...I am by far clueless on how to use it. I believe you are right. You and I would still not be enough and even if we were...what would we do to stop his insanity?"

"We could...contain him maybe? Until we can figure out a way to bring my father back?"

"You mean, like trap him...in his own dungeons?? He will just use his power to free himself."

"Not if he is weakened. The bars are iron and so are the shackles. Look at him now. His image. He's still weak."

Lola chuckled. "Not that weak. You missed the part where he just transformed into the giant beast that attacked Bash....and..." Lola began to panic. "Oh my god, Charles! Legolas, he was...bleeding. What if he was scratched??? From my understanding, elves are not immune to poison. Look what Catherine did to Haldir!! We need to find the Marchwarden. He will help!"

"Lola...Haldir is gone and we do not know where to even look. It is dangerous out there with Harker lurking about and now Ravenna and the white witch as well, not to mention the dead that have risen. As far as what my mother did to Haldir, that was poison, not venom. Haldir told me once they are immune to vampire venom, so maybe it holds true for all venom?"

Lola began to cry. "Maybe isn't good enough! I have to help Legolas! I just have to!"

"Where's Josie??"

"Oh my...Charles, we need to tell her what's happened! Before she..."

Charles tilted his head at her pause. "Before she...what?"

"Before she too is not herself anymore, for then, she will be our enemy."

The Narcisse siblings raced back to Josie's chambers only to find that things had gone from bad to worse. The fiery redhead was unconscious and sprawled out on the floor and Leeanduil was crying in her crib.

"Josie! Wake up!" Lola shouted as she shook her shoulders. "Charles, she is burning with fever. The venom is spreading again. We need to get her into bed and one of us needs to go find a healer. There must be something they can do to at least slow it down."

Charles, although of a very slim build, scooped the Queen right up as if she were as light as a feather and placed her onto the bed. "I will go. You stay here with her and lock the door behind me. Let no one in. As far as I am concerned, no one can be trusted."

That was the last Lola had seen of her brother that day, which then had turned into night. Hours had passed and Josie was constantly tossing and turning, mumbling words that appeared to be of black magic incantations and her skin felt like it had been badly sunburned, but she was not feverish anymore or even sweating. Any attempt Lola made to place a cool wet cloth upon her forehead, Josie thrashed about and cursed her as if it holy water, which in a sense it was since it was that of the protected Mirkwood waters. The only thing left for Lola to do was pray.

She opened the sheer curtains adorned over the balcony doors to allow optimal absorption of the full moon's rays into Josie's body, believing it had healing properties for many ailments and then she pulled her rosary from her pocket and wrapped it in her folded hands, then proceeded to kneel beside the bed, making the sign of the cross. "Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in Hea..."

Lola froze and opened her eyes as the grandfather clock in the halls struck midnight. After the 12th chime, Josie became ominously still and then her eyes of moonstones also opened, but as she blinked and reopened them, they turned to eyes of pure coal like that of a crow.

"Josie?" Lola gasped as she tried to move away but Josie aburptly arose and grabbed the candlestick on the night stand, swinging it at Lola's head and knocking her out cold onto the floor.

Climbing out of the bed, Josie cocked her head downward at the bleeding girl and wickedly grinned. "She's gone."

(Viewer/Reader discretion below!!!)

In his birthday suit, an aggravated Rahl stroked his uncooperative cock at the bath's edge while an anxious Seppia, standing with her back turned to him at a small table, did not speak.

"Seppia, do tell me why I am doing the job you are paid to do?" he snapped as he yanked his hand away from his limp girth with disgust.

Her silence and reluctance to face him only made him believe she was possibly shy, nervous and inexperienced due to her youthfulness. Sighing heavily, he moved towards her.

She gulped as she felt him approaching from behind. Her skin crawled as his hot breath grazed her ear. "Surely you have done this before? My men told me you were rather eager for them to choose you over the others in line at the docks. I cannot imagine a virgin would wish to take all of this pleasure inside of her without any practice, unless....you're one who enjoys torturous pain. My dear, are you into masochism? I must say, I find pain to be quite an aphrodisiac."

"Cat got your tongue?" he purred into her ear. "You don't need to speak to use it, although I would not mind a few, strike that, many dirty nothings whispered into my ear. Either way, your duties will be carried forth. The cat will have more than your tongue this night. There is no backing out. Why don't you begin by massaging the heat pressed against your back?"

As his hands rested upon her bare shoulders, she instinctively flinched and jerked one shoulder away, overruling his unwelcomed advances. His ego and the cock he could not even raise repulsed her. Sadist pig, she thought as her heart raced and her pores perspired from rapidly increasing adrenaline.

"So you wish to play cat and mouse is it? How I do enjoy a challenge. Games are quite entertaining but after the day I have had, drawn out foreplay is not on my agenda. To be quite frank, your resistance is beginning to piss me off. I would highly advise in not doing such. It will not end well for you."

Through her teeth, she finally spoke. "Like it didn't for my mother when you slit her throat before her young son's very eyes??"

Against her stomach, Seppia had been gripping a large clay vase filled with water that contained a very high dose of witch deterring salt, undetectable to the nose unlike the fragrant angelica leaves she had used earlier that day to weaken him, but the sodium solution was still strong enough to stun a warlock where he stood and delay his reaction time long enough to kill him with the blade of silver she also harbored.

In the split second Rahl had to react, he was able to recount the truthful event as the memory of Alice, a past servant of many years ago and the boy of approximately 10 years old named Nikolas, flashed before him. The woman had indeed been executed by Darken Rahl's hand and sword, for she had betrayed him by aiding Josselyn and her grandfather Zeddicus in sneaking Josselyn's baby Isabella out of the castle.

Taking an instant step back, his brows furrowed and his eyes recklessly moved about as he then remembered the infant daughter Alice also had, but never knew her name.

Without further warning, Seppia spun around and swung the vase with immense force, smashing it against the side of his head. As the salt water washed over him, blinding his vision and incapacitating his magical abilities, the powerful blow had thrust him backwards against the raised stone ledge of the bath, rendering him momentarily incoherent.

"And now I will avenge the mother and brother you stole from me, you murderous monster!!!!" she screamed, then charged and mounted him, raising the blade she pulled from the garter around her thigh....but as she did so, a bone-breaking hand clutched her wrist.

The knife was then ripped from Seppia's hand as she too had no time to react and without hesitation, her throat was immediately slit wide open just as her mother's had been.

In a matter of seconds, the entire room reflected of red in the candlelight. A warm crimson fountain sprayed forth from Seppia's neck, thoroughly showering Rahl in the deathly hue he so favored above any other as she was pushed over his debilitated body and sent plunging into the sizeable vat of water, instantly turning it in to a pool of blood.

As Rahl found the strength to turn over and support himself upon the bath's edge, his mouth wide open and panting as he gasped for air, his blindness vanquished, allowing his gaping eyes to view the floating sight before him.

It was then he heard Josephine's chuckling voice as she sat beside him. "Blood bath anyone? It would pair nicely with Dorwinion's finest red vintage, don't you agree my bloody valentine?"

As he processed her words, Rahl gazed at the red rippling water and knew he would never look at his wicked wine the same again, although it most certainly would not stop him from indulging in it.

Realizing that Seppia's blood which covered him from head to toe had cleansed the stinging salt from his body, his strength promptly returned and slowly, he stood stood, glancing down at a very pleased grin forming upon Josephine's lips as her eyes devoured his bare backside.

"You...you saved my life." he humbly admitted, finally turning to her.

Now standing before his blood soaked form in an intentionally chosen long white gown with a scarlet overlay, Josie adjusted her disheveled, saturated breasts and sucked the staining body fluid from her index finger. "I did. And now, do you bloody believe in me? Pun intended."

Rahl was briefly silent as his thoughts continued to clear. "I...I believe that..." he sighed and lowered his eyes. "I want to believe it, more than you know but...I believe that you only saved me to save Stephane."

"You cannot be serious right now. I do not go around killing young girls, or anyone for that matter, especially with such ease, well except for Asher but the bastard had it coming. I do not know what else I can possibly do or say to..."

He decided to test her emotions. "What if I told you that I put the fear of Satan himself into my own daughter, the one you so adore and I had your beloved Legolas placed in my dungeons to rot for raising a weapon to me."

Her brow arched in curiosity. "Oh?" and then she grimaced and shrugged her shoulders. "Well then I guess the asinine, imbecilic elf boy should have learned his lesson the first time he did so."

Rahl was astonished. "Funny....that is exactly what... I told him."

"Also funny," she chuckled, "Speaking of Satan, I too had to put the fear of the Keeper into dear Lola. She was spewing her silly little prayers at my bedside while stupidly attempting to heal me with the light of the moon. Little did the dimwit know that it only fed my transformation. Anywhooo, I had to knock her out. The blasphemy was hurting my ears. Don't worry. She will only have a splitting headache when she awakens. I had to get out of there. I needed to find you. I could sense the danger you were in. I just knew that slut Seppia was up to no good. So, are we good now?? Have I passed with flying red colors?"

"I see." he simply said.

"You see? That's it?" she scoffed, "You STILL do not believe me?? What you see is me NOT running out of here in a panic to save Legolas like you were expecting me to."

"Can you truly blame me for my cynicism?"

"There's a corpse in your bath, so YES I can!! Earlier, you told me that actions were what you needed and I provided them to you on a silver fucking platter so to say! If that is not good enough, then....how about this???"

Josie grabbed his hand and an electrifying light show began in and around their united fingers. The charge was so powerful, so intense that each of their bodies visibly quaked. Simultaneously, they both sucked in orgasmic gasps and their laughs trembled through their smiles as they clung to each other, refusing to break free.

"D..do...y...you....r..remem...ber ...th...this..ss?" Josie asked, smiling as her words jumbled about by the pulsations.

Rhal's reaction was identical. "H...how...c..could..I...f...f...forget...the...f...first...t..ttttime...we...mmmmmet?? I...wasss....s...soo...t...turn...turned...on bbb..by the sh..shock."

"Are...y...you...nnow??"

"L...like...a...f...fuc..king...s...sunr...rise."

Josie broke the connection and pulled him against her. "I can tell that is not all that has risen."

"Meow." he purred. "She's just a devil woman with evil on her mind."

A cat's growl vibrated in Rhal's throat as she grinded her pelvis into his and then they were impulsively lip locked. Slowly, softly, passionately, their mouths moved together, disregarding the gore which blanketed them and soured the air and the putrescence of a slowly sinking Seppia.

The Mirkwood elves were now at the halfway point before the Celduin's joining to the Carnen and they stopped once more for a brief rest, for it had begun to rain. No rest was needed for the evil Elvenking, but he wanted his elven army well rested and fueled for the days to come, for it was approximately 2 days before his arrival in Dorwinion and 11 days before the winter soltice, the night Jareth's army of the dead would wreak havoc upon all of middle earth and the Goblin King would certainly single out Dorwinion for the winter war's commencement.

Feeling the pull of the misty moon, Thranduil, staff in hand, basked beneath the magical rays of twilight in solitude as the rain saturated his nightly altered image.

With all the was occurring, surely things felt amiss for the elf lord, but something more began to gnaw at his ghostly white skin. Something in the rain. Something in his staff that he gripped tightly as it dimly glowed an electric blue and then began to hum as an electric current crawled up his arm and shocked his blackened heart. Something had shifted. Something as dark as he had become.

With a slight gasp, his widened yellow eyes darted to the direction of Dorwionion as the "something" in the rain became a potent scent that overwhelmed his olfactory senses. As he inhaled deeply, his nose cringed and his jaw gritted with an envious rage, for it was the pheromones of his Queen that he was breathing in. An arousing aroma he knew all too well.

A decision was made in that moment. One he had vowed to never repeat again, yet he had found himself betraying his own commands on more than one occasion when it came to Josephine.

Bringing his hand forth that bore Jareth's ring, he caressed the citrine gem with his forefinger and as he did so, he made his demand. "Show me."

Within the stone, a golden mist swirled into a funnel and as it dissipated, a reprehensible vision emerged. An intimate embrace between what appeared to be a bloodied Lord Narcisse and Josephine, smiling and once again...kissing.

"No more!" he barked and twisted the ring to the underside of his finger. "No more indeed." he then spoke in a softer tone, but it held vengeance in it. "No one takes what belongs to me. Now I," he emphasized, "will take AND punish."

@redeemer46

[rivendell-poet]

*･༓˚✧❝𝐰𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐝𝐨 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 (𝐋𝐨𝐭𝐑)❞‧͙⁺˚༓˚✧ « scenarios »

○ Aragorn ○ Legolas ○ Frodo ○ Sam ○ Merry ○ Pippin ○ Boromir ○ Faramir ○ Éowyn ○ Éomer ○ Bard ○ Thranduil ○ Tauriel ○ Lindir ○ Haldir ○ Elladan ○ Elrohir ○

GN!Reader | Wordcount : 3.7k (each individual around 220~ words) | Read on Ao3

TWS : Bard is worried about dating because it might be stressful for the children, references to his dead wife // Worries of power imbalance (Thranduil)

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𝐀𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐨𝐫𝐧

✧ At first he isn’t sure what to do - Aragorn is a little like the elves in that he has never, truly, fallen in love with someone before.

✧ He tries to think back to his first crush - Arwen - but it already feels wrong to compare what he has with you to what he had with her.

✧ Aragorn tries not to act too differently around you, he can still show you his home and look after you just as well as when you were friends.

✧ He doesn’t even realise the little gestures he begins to do until after he’s done them, like showing you the rose garden before every other garden in Rivendell.

✧ He’s slightly more protective of you as well - it isn’t like you’ve suddenly become glass, but he’s spent his entire life being taught it’s his duty to protect the things he loves.

✧ Aragorn also, when tongue-tied or more tired, begins to fall back in more formal tongues - almost talking to you as he would to a steward, simply because the important people in his life have been addressed that way.

✧ (He considers asking his brothers - but doesn’t trust Elrohir quite enough in terms of his feelings staying quiet. He’d also not like to be teased for the entirety of his visit).

✧ A small part of him is annoyed it’s happened now, with the Council of the Ring about to head out and not having as much time to spend with you.

𝐋𝐞𝐠𝐨𝐥𝐚𝐬

✧ Legolas has the odd experience of knowing what love is, he’s seen his mother and father - and been around in Middle Earth long enough, yet never having any experience with love.

✧ Especially with human love, and if it differs from elven. And also different social queues, the humans he interacts with are generally rangers who spend their entire lives travelling, not rangers of Gondor.

✧ In short, Legolas is a little overwhelmed and very nervous. He knows he shouldn’t be intimidated by the prospect of love, but he doesn’t want to do anything wrong.

✧ He still spends just as much time with you as before, although now it’s even more sparring/archery practice and less talking.

✧ (He knows he won’t mess up archery, but he’s scared of his tongue failing him).

✧ Eventually, he asks both Aragorn and Arwen separately for their advice for him - and what exactly he should do about his love for you. (Is very dedicated to this, nodding and sometimes writing advice down on a fragment of parchment.)

✧ Resolves that he needs to talk to you about it, but keeps not doing so by a mixture of deliberately putting it off and being distracted by you while spending time with you.

𝐅𝐫𝐨𝐝𝐨

✧ At first, Frodo is determined to treat you no differently from anyone else - while still being fascinated with you (although that is because of your nature, not a little because of his feelings).

✧ He begins to spend more time with you, trying to seek you out when he has things he should be doing, and when he has no obligations.

✧ Frodo tries to tell himself that it’s because you remind him of Bilbo’s stories, that you give him that feeling of adventure and wonder - but in reality it’s because you make him feel like he’s in romantic novels he’d read on a summer day.

✧ Some of his crush is obvious, his eyes shine a little too much when he sees you and his smile is always wider when he’s with you, but he always treats you with courtesy.

✧ Most of the time, Frodo treats you like you’re an esteemed guest - making sure you have the best food, holding the doors open for you, and hanging onto your every word.

✧ Still, he’s determined to at least be friends with you before he starts anything official, and that means being on his best behaviour.

✧ Eventually, he realises that he truly does want to court you, and begins to prepare only the very best.

𝐒𝐚𝐦

✧ Even when Sam realises he likes you, he’s still resolved not to do anything different. To not bother you; to continue to admire you from afar.

✧ And then only days later you and him are dancing together, smiling together, laughing together.

✧ It goes from zero to one hundred very quickly for Sam, so much so he doesn’t really have time to process it at the start.

✧ Once the two of you have an informal but established meeting schedule, he allows himself to actually think about what him liking you means - and how this affects your friendship.

✧ He realises that a lot of what he’s done with you is already quite romantic, not quite courting but wanting to be, and resolves to dial it back.

✧ But when he tries, the two of you don’t seem to smile as much - and he’s not being authentic to himself - so he decides to go back to how he was.

✧ Sam is very aware of how much he likes you, and how he subtly expresses it, but he’s much too afraid to act on these thoughts.

𝐌𝐞𝐫𝐫𝐲

✧ Merry has been in love before, a few times, but never anything like this. Never with anyone like you.

✧ But he also isn’t one to shy away from his feelings, so he approaches you quickly - tries to be charming, to make sure you like him.

✧ As soon as he’s interacted with you he’s even more hooked, and he eagerly sets up more meetings for the two of you - so he can see you again.

✧ When you two part ways he spends the rest of the day trying to work out how to tour the Shire, what jokes he should make and when.

✧ How can he make this experience the most enjoyable for you?

✧ Realising he likes you, Merry truly does go all in to try and show he cares about you - although he also tries not to be overbearing and gives you the space you need.

✧ He’s also not afraid of his feelings, and doesn’t take any particular care to hide them. He only waits to confess so it can happen at an appropriately romantic moment.

𝐏𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧

✧ Pippin is, in a way, infatuated with you. Except his love doesn’t go away, it just changes slightly, it matures.

✧ At the start he would blush around you like an idiot, gazing at you like you were the best thing he’d ever seen - even admiring your beauty in the middle of training sessions.

✧ He is embarrassed by his actions, but that only makes the blush worse, and he doesn’t even realise he’s doing a lot of the traits. By the time he does he snaps out of them, however.

✧ Once the crush matures into actually liking you - not just his first impressions, but everything - it becomes a lot more manageable.

✧ Yes, he still stares but it’s more subtle. His gaze is softer, and filled with admiration rather than a completely awestruck and dopy grin.

✧ Now he’s more focused on spending time with you and actually interacting with you, taking time to go and see you.

✧ Although he still eagerly runs up to you, looking up with a smile, it’s so much more genuine and you feel it doesn’t put you on a pedestal. When he looks at you with love, it’s actual love for you.

✧ You are aware of his crush from the start, although all of his little actions to try and be better and show his adoration from you appropriately are completely adorable.

𝐁𝐨𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐫

✧ The thing Boromir most dislikes about his realisation is that it’s on a time-limit. As a ranger of Ithilien, you will leave again for your post in only three weeks.

✧ He wishes that he’d realised as you were heading out, so that he could have planned something elaborate and worthy of you in the time you had been away.

✧ And then he remembers how long you were away for, and that he would have hated the hopeless pinning even more. That, left to his own devices with far too much time, he probably would have requisitioned the entire store of fireworks in Gondor for a confession (or a similar far too elaborate plot).

✧ When he greets you again he tries not to behave differently, and is still more grateful in your general meeting with him - even as a friend - than he is to be near you while in love with you.

✧ Knowing him well enough you can tell there is something different with Boromir, but nothing too concerning - simply a few extra glances in your direction, blush that’s almost too faint for you to bring up.

✧ Most of your first night back, after you’d finished drinking together and retired to your respective chambers, he spends thinking of what to do. Awake in his room, fingers tapping at his side as sleep cannot enter his mind while you are in it.

✧ Eventually, after thinking of a few suitable things, he asks his brother - aware he has known you for longer, and is the more romantic of the two.

✧ He isn’t ashamed or embarrassed about asking for help, and the only reason he doesn’t want you to know is he wants to court you properly.

𝐅𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐫

✧ Technically, the first thing he does is talk to you in a tavern and kiss you - then spend the rest of the night thinking about you after he pulls away.

✧ The first thing he does when he’s sober is realise what he’s done, and resolve to find you.

✧ His love for you isn’t the first thing on his mind when he tries to find you, it’s his sense of duty, but a part of his heart is beating constantly. Reminding him of just what he felt (and the other reasons he wants to know you).

✧ After his first conversation, the small part of his heart that beats for you grows to a large part - ensuring he’s aware of it.

✧ It’s what drives him to make sure that he proves himself to you, that makes him desperately wish that you’ll love him.

✧ He’s still respectful and courteous to you, insisting you get to know each other at least a little before you try anything, but when you’re not looking he views you a little as a lover would.

✧ Watching you look over Gondor, a soft blush settling on him as he sees you smile or hears you laugh.

✧ Committing the small things about you to memory, even if they’re only mentioned for a second.

𝐄𝐨𝐰𝐲𝐧

✧ At first, Éowyn tries her best not to acknowledge it, she knows she must focus on the crisis at hand - Helm’s Deep - and not her feelings.

✧ The thought only surfaces again when the women are being ushered into the caves, and she looks upon Helm’s Deep to try and see the people she cares about.

✧ She can see her uncle, high on the battlements, but her heart is fully reassured. Éowyn isn’t sure what’s wrong with it until she spots you, standing next to the others in the Fellowship and a part of her feels relief.

✧ One of the women next to her hurries her into the caves, and Éowyn feels her hand straying to the sword you’ve given her. A promise that you’ll return. A promise she needs you to keep.

✧ Being left alone in the caves, or as alone as you can be when surrounded by other people, her mind does stray to you. It strays to you every time she hears loud screaming outside, and every time she grips onto your sword for comfort. That you have given her means to protect herself.

✧ In the caves, she comes to the realisation that she does care for you. In a way she didn’t care for Aragorn.

✧ Because she knows more about you, because what she loves about you is not just a constructed image built up in her own mind but instead based on your actions and personality.

✧ When the battle is over and she looks at you again she is assured in her feelings. Glad that she knows them, even if she does not wish to act on them just yet.

✧ This time, she can get to know the object of her desires.

𝐄𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐫

✧ For the first time since you've become friends with him, it's Éowyn that manages to run up and greet you before her brother. He comes over slightly behind, greeting you in a subdued way and leaving quickly.

✧ Éomer feels guilty about leaving you there, seeing the confusion in your face, but he doesn't want to imagine the alternatives.

✧ As much as he loves you, there's a high chance you don't feel the same way - and he doesn't want awkwardness between you and him to hurt his sister's closest friendship.

✧ He also knows the unspoken rules of dating when it comes to siblings - that their friends are off limits.

✧ His heart hurts when he next sees you, as he still goes to watch your training and talk with you.

✧ But now he knows that talking isn't just what he wants anymore. He wants to take you on dates, to shower you in gifts, to kiss you in celebration after battle.

✧ In order to keep your friendship happy, he doesn't. He keeps being your friend - of course - and simply hopes it will go away before you notice.

𝐁𝐚𝐫𝐝

✧ Bard is the only one who is truly uncertain about this, and if he wants to try and further your relationship.

✧ Not because of you, he knows when he’s in love and by Valar he knows he’d happily spend his life with you, but because of his children. He knows losing their mother has been hard on them, and he doesn’t want to upset the delicate balance they have.

✧ But on the other hand, they all truly like you - and he doesn’t think they’d mind having another parent around, especially as you two could take it slow.

✧ And then he realises you might not want to be with the kids, or with him. He’s a bargeman who’s hated by Laketown’s rulers, and you’re in the city guard.

✧ It still doesn’t change how you interact, as the children still drag him over to talk to you and when Bard’s with you it’s easy for him to forget a lot of his worries.

✧ He becomes more reserved, although that’s much more a reflection of his own insecurities than any slight on you whatsoever.

✧ Eventually, he does miss one of your informal meetings - still feeling unsure and guilty - but when he sees you again and you ask where he was Bard knows he can’t do it again.

𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐢𝐥

✧ Thranduil isn’t sure how to approach this realisation, although more because of you than because of him.

✧ When an elf falls in love then they have truly fallen in love, and Thranduil - knowing that he’s acknowledged his feelings - knows exactly how he feels about you. He can acknowledge when you make his heart skip a beat as you smile at him, even if he can’t stop it (and his smile that always grows to match yours).

✧ No, it was you he was worried about. Because he was your king, and your employer.

✧ And even if you were beginning to mean the world to him, he essentially ran your world. It would be unfair of him to do something that could take advantage of you.

✧ Once he’s aware of what he’s doing he does try to hold back affectionate gestures from being quite as obvious, and becomes a bit more closed off - although not necessarily colder.

✧ Regrets it the second he sees the worry in your eyes, and how you’ve become more withdrawn as well.

✧ (Feels truly awful when Legolas complains you haven’t been as happy recently, and he should fix it because ‘he’s the king’)

𝐓𝐚𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐥

✧ For as much as Tauriel does like you, she really doesn’t change that much.

✧ Both of you still have a strict patrol schedule, and both of you still spend a lot of your free-time together, trying to make each other laugh or just smile on the bad days.

✧ She is slightly more awkward sparring, however.

✧ Tauriel manages to knock the blade out of your hand, and you immediately try to knock her to the ground - ending up on top of her as you two struggle.

✧ Thoughts of… other things briefly occur to her - and you can see her blushing while you get up, apologising.

✧ Assuring you it’s fine, Tauriel curses at herself internally before offering to spar again.

✧ When the two of you are closer together she’s certainly more aware than she used to be, although she’s still professional about it.

✧ She does realise she can’t spend her entire life simply being your friend, and does eventually resolve to let you know… in some way… somehow.

𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐫

✧ Affectionately, Lindir does not manage to hide his crush very well - or function incredibly either.

✧ He’s a lot more conscious of what’s the subject of his poetry, and almost every poem he writes ends up connected to you in some way. Whether it’s through your eyes, an analogy to you, or even if something small - like the jewels being the colours of your eyes.

✧ He still meets you, although he finds it harder to meet your eyes - at least without having blush explore all over his face.

✧ It’s obvious, but he still carries his conversations just as eloquently as he did before, and still wants to spend just as much time with you.

✧ And he’s also terrified. Of becoming mortal.

✧ Lindir is sure he loves you, but he also knows he doesn’t want to die. And for both of those things to occur at the same time, he isn’t sure which one he wants more.

✧ Although he’s having doubts, it isn’t about your relationships - just his own feelings - and he knows that he does want to try something with you.

✧ Being the poet he is, he begins to notice them turning into love ballads as well. Maybe to recite to you one day, or hopefully to recite to you.

𝐇𝐚𝐥𝐝𝐢𝐫

✧ Haldir is the elf that doesn’t really change in his interactions with you. He recognises he likes you, but he doesn’t see the need to behave like a lovesick puppy.

✧ If you do like him it should be for him, not some persona he’s put on because he’s either too embarrassed to see you or because he’s too busy being enamoured by your presence.

✧ He does make an effort to spend time with you, offering a place on patrols with him, and giving a tour of Lothlórien - but he tries to treat you as he would a friend,

✧ It doesn’t stop him being more concerned about you than he would another stranger, making sure that you’ve spent your day exploring instead of being overwhelmed by grief.

✧ Also very good at not blushing, although because you’re an elf you can just about pick it up - that and the small quirk up of his lips when he sees you.

✧ You can also spot, if you’re trying to, the looks he gives you when he thinks you can’t see him; they’re not intrusive, merely admiring of your presence.

✧ (Also has the added advantage of you not knowing him before his crush, so if he ever does something too romantic you'll just think it's something he does normally. Maybe... he hopes.)

𝐄𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐝𝐚𝐧

✧ Elladan, at first, has a small crisis. Just a small one - mind you. He’s only realised that he’s in love with his best friend of almost a century.

✧ Does the smart thing of immediately going on a trip out and away from Imladris to avoid you try and think about his feelings.

✧ Most of the elves in Imladris are just glad he’s finally figured it out, and that they don’t have to watch the two of you dance around each other any longer.

✧ They don’t notice too much of a behavioural shift in him, he’s always been pining after you.

✧ He’s one of the best at accepting it, once the crisis is over, as he knows he’d be honoured to be your friend no matter what and you two can still meet each other without courting.

✧ Spends a few days with you, in which you can tell he’s acting slightly off. Elladan does not help with your worries, as when you ask him if he’s ill he answers much too quickly before avoiding eye-contact for the next hour.

✧ (Elrohir finds all of this absolutely hilarious.)

✧ Also a small part of him that's very glad he's fallen in love with an elf, so he knows he can travel to Valinor and be with his mother and father (and hopefully brother) when the time comes.

𝐄𝐥𝐫𝐨𝐡𝐢𝐫

✧ Is in two minds about how he should approach you. On one hand, he doesn’t see the point in disguising his intentions and dancing around for the next twenty years (and as a mortal, you really can’t afford to wait that long). On the other hand, he’s a romantic and he wants this to play out like a story of old.

✧ A story where the two of you bond together, overcome challenges, and eventually look into each other’s eyes and- so he might be thinking a little far ahead.

✧ He’s naturally a charismatic elf, so doesn’t take issue with talking to you and trying to charm you. He’d do that even if he just wanted to be your friend.

✧ Elrohir is annoyed about the timing of this whole situation, it’s inconvenient to gain a crush just as you're about to march to war on the Dark Lord of Mordor.

✧ Also hovers over you a bit too much. He knows you can fight, but he certainly doesn’t want to lose you.

✧ Vehemently denies doing anything at all if asked, regardless of who’s asking.

✧ Enjoys annoying you slightly too much, although this mainly comes from him being clingy and trying to spend a lot of time with you.

✧ (In the back of his mind he finds it hilarious that both him and Arwen have fallen for mortals who have high positions of power in Gondor. Is not looking forward to his father finding out.)

A/N : Mmm, definitely on time. Also, I'm doing the confession scenes soon - so I do have a poll up about the use of y/n. Going to try avoiding using it, but if you read these then it will help me out so I know what you guys want. Thanks again for reading, and feedback is more than welcomed! Have a nice day/night <3

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[thetempleofthemasaigoddess]

Like rivulets of gold

Haldir x reader. Nethel is Sindarin for sister.

The fic was inspired by this imagine by @imaginexhobbit.

This fic is dedicated to the lovely @starlady66!!

*****

Your patrol shift at the farthest corner of Lothlórien has just ended, and while part of you cannot wait to return to your talan for a long and well deserved night’s sleep, the other is much more anxious to see Haldir and your friends.

This is the part that prevails, despite the weariness.

This is why, once you have passed the borders of Caras Galadhon, you exchange a nod and a smile with the guards on duty and without further delay you head for the Wardens’ Hall, a spacious, low-roofed chamber where you and your comrades gather to eat, receive orders from your superiors and, overall, spend time together and relax when you have no duties to attend to. The full moon has risen in the sky at least two hours ago, which means supper time must be over, but you are almost sure Haldir and his brothers are still there; and in any case, making sure will only cost you a few minutes.

The light of the torches shines inside the sparsely decorated chamber, spreading a warm, orange glow; a few guards sit at the tables you usually have your meals at, nursing a cup of ale or engrossed in a conversation. You share a smile and a nod with a few of them while you look around you; Haldir is not here, but Rúmil and Orophin are… and both look in a horrible mood.

“Mae govannen.” you greet them as you approach, and both stand to greet you with a kiss.

“Well met, nethel.” they say almost as one. They have started to call you that five years ago, soon after you and their older brother had begun courting, and it still never fails to warm your heart every time they do it.

“How was patrol?” Rúmil asks as they make space for you on the bench, and you leave your bow and quiver against the wall, letting your poor feet rest for a while.

“Tiring, but fortunately no orcs incursions or anything else to report.” you succintly explain, hoping to quickly conclude the conversation. The last thing you want is to appear rude, especially when you are in the company of two of your dearest friends -and who were such even before you and Haldir began courting- but the Elf you have at heart the most is not here, and you do not want to waste any more time before seeing him “Where is Haldir?”

The two brothers exchange a glance, frowning once more. “He is at his talan. But, (name), I do not think he wants to see you now - or anyone else for that matter.”

“Yes, it is better if you leave him alone for a while.”

“Is something wrong?” you wonder, immediately worried; you and Haldir had not quarreled and he was fine when you said goodbye two days ago, so why should he not want to see you, as it has long been your habit every time one of the two returns from patrol?

“Eithruin.” they answer as one once more, and you think you should have known.

Eithruin is one of your fellow guards, only a few years older than you; mercurial and bad-tempered, she is quite unpopular among her comrades, even though you must concede she is one of the most capable and experienced among the marchwardens. She is also a former, unrequited, suitor of Haldir: a few years ago, she confessed her feelings to him, who -as kindly as he could- rejected her. And that is where trouble began. Ever since, hurt and annoyed by that rejection, Eithruin has taken every opportunity to bother Haldir: she gainsays him every time she can, and takes delight in causing trouble for him or to embarass him in front of your superiors. Furthermore, once you and Haldir have begun courting, you have also become a favourite victim of her malice.

“What happened this time?” you ask with a sigh while Rúmil wordlessly puts a cup of ale in your hands, that you gratefully bring to your lips.

“You remember that tomorrow morning the lady Galadriel will announce her choice regarding the captaincy?”

You did not, which is surprising, since you have thought about nothing else for days, even though the matter does not concern you directly. A month ago it was announced one of the wardens would be promoted to captain; one of the other officers has told you in confidence that Haldir is one of the two guards who has the best chance of being chosen… together with Eithruin.

“I swear, if Eithruin is made captain, I will move to Eryn Galen.” Orophin says as he passes an hand on his face “I am not saying it simply because Haldir is my brother and I want him to succeed; she is so insufferable already, can you imagine what it will be once she can order us around?”

You cannot help but agree; you know becoming captain would mean so much for Haldir, and that he deserves the promotion more than anyone else, but anyone, literally every Elf in Lothlórien, would be preferable to Eithruin… because having her as your superior would be a calvary for Haldir and for those he loves - namely the three of you.

“Go on, please.” you beg the brothers of your beloved, and Rúmil explains that for days Eithruin has been even more insufferable than usual, teasing him every chance she got and even speaking ill of him with one of lady Galadriel’s handmaidens, clearly aiming to cast him in a bad light with the Lady herself. Haldir, who is sensible and level-headed and -usually- above such petty arguments, ignored her like he had done countless times before, and in a couple of cases even turned the insult against her.

But that night, only two hours before your return, irked because she had been unable to upset him or maybe because she feared Haldir would be chosen as captain against her, Eithruin had stooped lower than ever before.

“We were having supper together, and Haldir had just sat after filling his plate.” Rúmil explains “Eithruin walked past him, and said…”

You are squeezing the cup in your hands so hard your knuckles have turned white. “Yes?”

“Oh, (name)… She said… you should reduce your food portions, Haldir, or soon you will not fit in your uniform anymore. You are already fat enough to pass for a Man, if you gain more weight they will mistake you for an Orc.”

You gape, the incredulity leaving you speechless for a minute. “What?” you cry in the end, loud enough that all the Elves in the chamber turn in your direction “That… she said what?!”

Haldir is quite well-liked by his fellow guards -which, in your opinion, would serve him well should he be made captain- but naturally it happens that disagreements arise between him and his comrades; a few times, he even quarrelled with his brothers or with you. But in no case, no matter how angry the other person was, anyone has ever mentioned the topic you all know is most painful for your beloved to think about: his weight. Haldir has always been embarassed by his stocky -you prefer saying strong, but still- build, which is indeed slightly heavier than most Elves', especially since both Rúmil and Orophin are much slimmer; the matter has long been a source of shame and unease for him, something than even his few detractors have respected, but mentioning it in public, to embarass him in front of his fellow guards… it is cruel, and petty, and cowardly, and something you will make sure to punish.

“Is it true?” you ask, your ale long forgotten; you know Eithruin, the depth of her contempt for Haldir and what she could do to hurt him, but still cannot believe she would lower herself to this “Orophin, did Eithruin really say that to Haldir?”

“I fear she did; we were sitting at this very table, and we were all present. Haldir… Haldir said nothing; he rose from the table and left. The two of us attempted to follow him to reassure and comfort him, but he asked us to leave him alone for a while; I think he went back home.”

You nod slowly, feeling your heart break at the thought of what your beloved had to bear; Haldir is not hurt -not physically, at least, not in a way that could endanger his life- but you grieve for him all the same, knowing how painful it must have been for him to be mocked for his weight… and are full of rage for the Elf who ridiculed him and exploited his deepest vulnerability for the sole reason to humiliate him in front of his peers.

Eru help you, when you will be done with her Eithruin will regret the day she was born!

It takes you a moment as you look around the Hall to find her; she is sitting in a corner, alone, engrossed in the book in her hands. You move to stand, and immediately Orophin stops you grabbing your arm. “Stop, (name).” he whispers, clearly unhappy with his own request “Do you not think we also want to teach her a lesson…”

“… and force her to apologize to Haldir? But it would amount to nothing, and he would not want us to get in trouble; remember brawls among guards are severely punished.” Rúmil interjects.

They are right, and while you would be happy, or at least willing, to be reprimanded by your superiors if it meant breaking Eithruin’s pretty nose with your fist, you know Haldir would not thank you for it, but he would feel guilty he is the reason you got into trouble.

“I only wish to talk to her.” you promise with a sigh “I will not touch her, I promise.”

Orophin lets you go, and he and Rúmil look on as you reach Eithruin.

“I thought my opinion of you could not sink any lower.” you begin once you stand in front of her, without raising your voice and, correspondingly, without lowering it to keep the guards sitting nearby out of the conversation “But this time I must admit you surprised me, Eithruin; I did not think you were capable of such cruelty.”

She waits for you to have finished talking before raising her gaze from the book and offering you a flippant smile. “Ah, (name). How was patrol?”

“I want you to leave Haldir alone.”

“I did nothing to hurt him. I did not even touch him.”

I know you have not, because he would not let you, and this is why you hate us both. “I am not talking about physical hurts and you know it well. You need to stop harassing him; this is your last chance, and then I will report you…”

“No, you will not.” you are calmly interrupted; she closes her book, primly resting her hands on it, and a cruel smile folds her lips “Because he would not want you to, and you would not displease him; so you have nothing to threaten me with. After all, Haldir should thank me; I only wanted to open his eyes. He is clumsy, fat as an ox, an embarassment for all the marchwardens. Someone like him is not fit to be made captain.”

Ah. You were sure it would come to this; you are so furious you are almost shaking. “While you do?” you ask skeptically.

“You know it is true; and lady Galadriel knows as well.”

You could really hit her, you suddenly realize. You have not resorted to violence on another Elf since the years of your childhood -ever since, specifically, a playmate took the rag doll your mother had just made and gifted you and decapitated her with a knife; you did not pay him back in kind, but you punched him in the face hard enough to make his nose bleed- and as a matter of principle you try to solve your problems peacefully, but if there is someone in Caras Galadhon who deserves to be torn to pieces, it is Eithruin. Who cares about the consequences, who cares if you are suspended or even expelled from the Marchwardens? No one, not even one of your comrades, not even the Lord or the Lady, can insult and humiliare your beloved and get away with it…

But Orophin was right; worse, Eithruin is right, Haldir would not want you to fight his battles, and especially it would break his heart to know you have gotten into trouble because of him. So you force yourself to remain calm and “We will see about it.” you simply answer; you turn, still burning with anger, and all to aware Eithruin is laughing at you, you nod to the brothers of your beloved and stomp out of the Hall.

When you reach his talan, Haldir is, as you expected, lying on his bed, his fingers interwined under his blonde head; when he sees you climb on the slender rope ladder and reach the wooden platform circling around one of the great mallorn trees, a weak, uncertain smile appears on his lovely mouth, as if, while happy to see you, he did not wish for you to see him in the state he is in.

Which is why, obviously, you have to see him.

“You are back.”

“That I am. I heard from a reliable source that you skipped dinner, and I have brought you something to eat.”

You triumphantly lift the small basket you have filled with the content of your pantry and brought with you; Haldir rises from the bed to reach you, but a shake of his head rejects your offer of food.

“Thank you, I really appreciate it, but I am not hungry at all. To tell the truth… I was thinking I should eat a little less, for a while.”

“This is the stupidest idea I have ever heard.” you brusquely answer; your heart cries knowing Eithruin’s cruel words have hit their mark and your beloved is uncomfortable in his own body, but Haldir can be incredibly stubborn when he wants to, and you have to find a way to make him forget the insults of his former suitor, and see he is perfect the way he is. You rest the basket on the tiny table at the corner of the talan, and then take out a loaf of bread and a small jar of honey “Hand me a knife, please.”

“I am not saying I want to starve, (name), only…”

“Only nothing, Haldir. Please, listen to me…”

You leave the bread and the honey on the table next to the basket and take Haldir’s hands in yours; he is handsome enough to make your heart race, just like he did on the day you first met and like he will continue to do, you suspect, until the end of times. His long blonde hair, falling like rivulets of gold on his shoulders, back and chest, his blue eyes, deep as the coldest pools in the forest and still capable of such warmth, his thin lips, so generous in their smiles and that still, after so many years, have the power to stop your heartbeat when they press against yours…

Eru; you admire his modesty, but how can he believe to be any less than perfect?

“Haldir, there is nothing at all wrong with you, let alone with your build or your weight; you do not need to lose any.”

“I am almost as large as Rúmil and Orophin together.”

“That is not true; and even if you were, so what? No one has ever mocked the Onodrim because they are larger than the other Children of Eru.”

Being compared to one of the Tree-Folk brings a weak smile on your beloved's face, who is still full of shame and guilt for his body. He avoids your gaze, as if he feared to see disgust and distaste in your eyes -you, who know his body as well as your own, and have learnt to love all of it, to find peace and warmth and protection in the secret of his flesh- and, far from being offended by such a lack of trust, you wish you could let him see himself through your eyes.

You gently press an hand against his stomach under his grey tunic, feeling the strong, taut muscles under the skin. “Haldir, how can you not see there is nothing wrong with your body?” you gently point out “You are tall and strong and handsome; Eru has been generous with you. These are gifts, not flaws; and even if they were, you know that the way we look is not important, what is in our hearts is. Or do you care for me simply because you think I am beautiful?”

“Of course not. But…”

“No buts, marchwarden. You have a lovely figure, and an even more precious fëa. What is there to be ashamed of?”

Haldir sighs; your words, your praises as well as your reasonings, have not fallen on deaf ears, but your beloved is not yet ready to forget Eithruin’s hurtful words, seeds fallen on too fertile a ground not to take root. You are alone on the talan, almost hidden in the dark of the full moon night, the silence surrounding you complete but for the melanchony song of a barn owl looking for his mate.

“Sometimes I wish I were different.” he finally confides in you as he sits on the bed, holding your hand in his until you do the same “I know that there is nothing shameful in the way I look, and that what matters is what one is inside, but… sometimes, I just wish I could look like the others; not stand out, even if there is nothing wrong in it. It is foolish, useless as well as ungrateful, but I cannot help it; most of the time I am fine with the way I look, but there are moments… days, even, when I feel I could leave everything behind and live alone in the woods, where no one will see me and judge me because of my bulk.���

“We all have doubts about ourselves, my love.” you gently point out as you squeeze his hand in both of yours “But remember, this is not your heart speaking; it is Eithruin, her envy and her spite.”

“That she wants to hurt me does not mean she is not telling the truth.” he notes, the melancholy in his voice breaking your heart. Haldir has always been your rock, as well as that of Rúmil and Orophin -who he helped raise, even though he was barely more than a boy himself- and of whoever of his friends ever needed help; to see him so lost, so unsure and helpless, pains you more than a dagger in your chest.

“Haldir, you have nothing to be ashamed about.” you insist, circling his large shoulders with an arm until his cheek is resting against your shoulder; it is sad to see your beloved so saddened, fragile and in need of consolation, but you are happy to help, because you want him to be happy, and you know that, were you the one in need, he would stop at nothing to make you smile again “If you are worried your more robust build is an impediment to your duties, you know that is not the case. You are agile, fast, an excellent warrior. Your bulk gives you strength, and this is why you are the best among us in hand-to-hand combat.”

“Eithruin said...”

“Do not pay heed to Eithruin’s words, my darling; you know well she only wants to humiliate you and hurt your reputation because she wants to be named captain in your place.”

“It might happen.” he admits, his expression still bitter under the light of the lantern hanging from the branches above “I have no love for Eithruin, but she is a capable, experienced marchwarden; she deserves an advancement in rank.”

“That she is; and maybe yes, she will be chosen for the promotion.” you concede, and shudder, imagining a future in which you, Rúmil and Orophin and, worse of all, Haldir himself, will be ordered around by Eithruin “But I do not care. You are a worthy Elf, a capable guard and a good friend and brother, and this is what really matters; I do not want you to doubt your self-worth. And if that… that… toad will speak about you in a less than respectful tone once again, she will have me to deal with.”

Finally, a tiny but sincere smile appears on Haldir’s mouth. “In that case, I have nothing to be scared about.” he concedes, and you smile back, happy for that small, private success “Thank you for coming tonight; you must be exhausted, but I feel much better now that you are here.”

“I am glad I could help. You know...” you add in a casual tone once you have both let yourselves fall back on the bed, and are now staring at the roof-like canopy above you; you turn on your side towards him, and begin to lazily caress your beloved’s chest “Someone told me mortal women prefer men of your build.”

“Is that so?”

“Apparently it is. Slender physiques like they are common among our kind are sometimes considered less attractive, because they are a sign of poor physical strenght. A robust body, muscled arms, large shoulders… this is usually what the women of the Edain look for in their partners."

Haldir is now openly smiling - because of your words or your ministrations, you could not say. “Then maybe I should have been born a mortal.”

“Do you really think so?”

“Of course not; in that case, I would have never met you, or at least we could not have hoped for a future together.”

Haldir kisses you once again while his arms circle your hips to hold you closer to him. “Yestereve I received a letter from home.” he says, referring to his parents, who live in another village half a day ride from Caras Galadhon.

“Are your parents well?” you wonder, sincerely interested and at the same time grateful your beloved is thinking about something other than his former suitor’s insults.

“They are. They send their love… and ask whether we have decided to marry.”

You laugh softly, your fingers playing with the golden locks of your beloved’s hair; he is not wrong, you are exhausted after two days of patrol, but his company, and being in his arms, is a better balm than the best night's sleep “They ask that in every letter they send, even those addressed to your brothers; but, Haldir, you know I am happy with the way things are now.”

“As I am. But, (name), we have been courting for five years now; do you not think there is no use in waiting still?" he points out as his fingers play with your hair - something only he is allowed to do "The time of Elves on Middle-Earth is coming to an end, and before sailing for Valinor I would marry you here, in the Golden Wood, our home, where we met.”

You know your beloved was like you fine with a long courtship, and was not in a hurry to wed, but about this, you must admit, you had not thought. “I love Lothlórien as much as you do.” you reflect out loud as you return your beloved’s embrace, your legs intertwining with his “But wherever you go, Haldir, there is where my home will be. When we leave for Valinor, we will do it together, and we will never part as long as the world lasts, and if to announce it to the rest of Arda I will have to put a ring on your finger… well, that is a sacrifice I am willing to make.”

“A sacrifice? Seriously, (name)?”

Haldir laughs; Eru, he is so beautiful! “So it is decided? We are going to wed?”

“We are.” you happily answer; this is not a matter you had planned to discuss today, but the two of you had spoken about it so many times before, and you both know the truth: a marriage ceremony will celebrate your commitment to each other, but even if you chose to go on like you have done for five years already, Haldir knows you love him and you know he loves you, and that nothing and no one will ever separate you. This is what really matters; everything else is superfluous.

Your beloved smiles; he is happier than you have ever seen him. “Ah, meleth nîn... How happy you make me...”

He kisses you, deeply enough to elicit a moan from your mouth that his avidly swallows, as Haldir's weight pushes you on your back; you caress his blonde hair as his sweet lips take possess of you, kissing your face and your neck and leaving a trail of goosebumps behind them. You hold him close, his heartbeat matching yours, and think you do not care what the future will hold, because you know you will face it together.

“I love how tall and strong you are.” you whisper as your hands move on Haldir’s back and shoulders, feeling the smooth skin and strong muscles under his tunic “You make me feel safe and protected.”

His laugh reverberates against your chest, just as Haldir’s hand slips along your leg, his fingertips barely brushing against your skin “You speak as if you were one of the damsels the heroes have to save in the tales. Are you not a brave marchwarden of Lothlórien?”

“I am with my betrothed, I can speak however I want.” you primly answer “A betrothed who is perfect the way he is, and who would be no matter what he looks like, and whatever his weight is. A betrothed who, now that I remember, has skipped dinner, and this will not do.”

Haldir moans - a not unpleasant sound to hear. “I was thinking we could…” he begins, but happily stops when you kiss him once more, tacitly promising there will be time for other diversions, once he has taken care of his stomach.

“Shall we have dinner together? I have not eaten either.” you suggest, and he smiles before kissing your cheek, his blue eyes full of joy and gratitude.

“I would like that.”

On the next day, in a sunny and warm afternoon, you enter the Wardens’ Hall, received by the congratulations and the well wishes of your comrades. Rúmil and Orophin are handing out cups of ale to everyone present, asking them to celebrate the engagement of their brother and the maiden they already called sister, but they stop to enfold you in a single, tight embrace.

“I am so happy; we both are.” Rúmil whispers, voice cracking with emotion “Take care of him, will you? He loves you more than you can ever know.”

“I will.” you promise, heart full of affection for both; how fortunate you are, gaining two brothers as you prepare to marry the love of your life “I will give my life for him if I need.”

“Well, let us hope you do not need to.” Orophin quips before kissing you on the brow, the way a brother would “Personally, I am mostly relieved he finally decided to propose…”

Eithruin, judging from her attire ready to depart for a patrol shift, is sitting with her friends, and she has the look of someone who has just swallowed a lemon. “So… you and Haldir have decided to marry, (name)?” she asks, trying to pretend to be only vaguely interested and failing miserably.

You answer with your sweetest smile. It would be mean to gloat, but you did well not to punch her in the face like you were tempted to last night, you decide; this is a much sweeter revenge, and it will not cost you a reprimand or a punishment from your superiors… including the one who has just received the promotion.

“We did. And you know, Eithruin? In a sense, we have you to thank for it.”

“M-me?”

It is just then that Haldir, smiling and so handsome in his new captain uniform, appears on the doorstep of the Hall, immediately greeted by the congratulations and the pats on the back of his comrades, all happy and proud of him; he waves at you, who answer with a silent smile, your mind and heart still full of the sweet and intimate moment of last night.

Then, you turn your gaze back to Eithruin, fully aware of the cruelty and pettiness of the words you are about to pronounce, and still unable to stop; in any case, you are quite sure she deserves it.

“Exactly; and this is why we hope you will not miss our wedding. And when we are on duty we should refer to him as captain now, do you not think?”

Eithruin turns red with rage at your words, but when she attempts to respond -with, no doubt, one of her usual spiteful remarks- no sounds leave her lips. Pointedly ignoring her, you turn and walk to your bethroted, holding out your hand to take the one he is offering you together with another of his beautiful smiles.

TAGGING @starlady66 and @sotwk!

[justsomerandomfanfic]

New To This - Haldir X GN Reader

Title: New To This

Haldir X GN Reader

Additional Characters: Lórien elves (Mentioned)

Requested by Anon!

WC: 1,420

Warnings: Awkwardness, misunderstandings, anxiety, nervousness, slight angst, orcs mentioned, LOTR canon violence mentioned, Haldir is a quiet simp, confessions, childhood friends to lovers, and fluff

You smiled when you saw the entrance to Lórien, your home. You entered the land, bringing your horse to a stop before you hopped off your steed. You found some of the march wardens that guarded the northern border of the forest. They nodded when they saw you, watching as you smiled and ran off, in search of your childhood friend, Haldir. You had been friends with him for as long as you could remember. The two of you would spend hours together at the edge of the forest when he wasn't guarding it. You loved Haldir, that's what you knew. You loved him for such a long time, but you didn't want to say anything, you didn't want to possibly lose your friendship, and lose him forever.

You walked towards him as fast as your legs could take you, calling out his name as you did. "Haldir!" You exclaimed happily as you reached his side, instantly wrapping your arms around him. 

Haldir froze, his arms hesitantly wrapping around you in return. Clearing his throat awkwardly, he spoke, "You've returned safely I presume?" 

You stepped away, letting go and stepping back a bit. "Yes, I am fine. No bruises, cuts, or scratches. I didn't even run into any orcs." You smiled triumphantly. 

"Well, that is good then." Haldir looked at you, smiling a bit. "How was your stay in Rivendell?"

"It was wonderful." You replied quickly, shrugging. "I had a lovely time."

Haldir smiled slightly, "You are not going to leave Lórien for good, are you?" He asked, not so subtly hinting to his slight fears that you would leave Lórien, and him, for Rivendell.

You shook your head, "Forever? No, Haldir, my friend. I wouldn't leave you or Lórien. The people here are my family." You rolled your eyes, "And you can not get rid of me that easily." Haldir nodded, continuing to smile slightly as you let out a sigh, "Well, I am going to head to my room for the night, I'll see you at breakfast?"

"Of course," Haldir spoke before watching you head off to your room. He sighed, watching you go, his heart pounding as he thought about how much better he felt when you were near. A small part of him wished you stayed longer, oh, how he missed you.

You had only been gone a couple of moons, but Haldir felt like you had been gone for decades. He couldn't stand it. It was driving him crazy. When you came back, he could hardly contain himself, he wanted to tell you how much you lit up his world. How he thought you were the reason the stars above shined. He wanted you to know just how much he loved you. And that he would do everything to keep you by his side. He sighed deeply, shaking his head. It was too soon for that. And you only saw him as your friend, he was sure of it. 

He could still feel your arms wrapped around him, how warm you were, and the feeling of your clothing underneath his fingertips. Haldir was usually very uncomfortable with physical touch, though with you... Well, he didn't mind. The feeling that ran through him when you hugged him was exhilarating and he felt as if he could fly. Haldir smiled to himself, remembering how your face seemed to light up upon seeing him. He didn't know how to deal with his feelings.

~~~

For the next couple of days, you'd meet with Haldir, greeting him with a hug every time. He always seemed to be a bit surprised when you did that, but it made him smile nonetheless. Every time you hugged him, he felt something inside him flutter, something new. And that made him happy. Though as his heart fluttered, you felt more and more that Haldir disliked the hugs that you gave him. He would always freeze up, seeming to tense whenever you held onto him. Haldir seemed to have a bad habit of being stiff whenever you touched him. Slowly, you stopped hugging Haldir when you greeted him, and Haldir immediately noticed. 

He was confused by your sudden change in habits, you hadn't hugged him for a few weeks now, and he wondered if he did something wrong. Did he upset you in any way? Had he said something to hurt you? Was your friendship with him ruined? Haldir was anxious and he didn't know how to handle it. But he was determined to solve this issue, to find out what was going on with you. He hoped you weren't mad at him, because he would do anything to make things right between you. 

"Y/N," He began as you stood on one of the many wooden bridges of Lórien. "Have I done anything to offend you?" He abruptly asked, making you turn your head to look at him with wide eyes.

"No, Haldir. Why do you ask?" You spoke, confused and curious as Haldir looked off into the distance.

"You... Haven't hugged me in a long time." He began, feeling his face flush as he continued, "You usually greet me in such a way, but you haven't as of recently."

You turned to look off into the distance, "Oh."

Haldir let out a small breath before he continued to speak, "I... I will admit that I have been missing your... Touch." Haldir muttered nervously out.

You raised an eyebrow, turning back to look at his side profile, "You... Do you?" You asked, sounding shocked.

Haldir nodded, "Yes, I do." He admitted sheepishly.

You frowned lightly, looking away again. "Then why do you freeze up, like you are uncomfortable?"

"I am... Just new to this. New to the feelings that I have for you."

"Feelings?" You looked back up at him, "What feelings?"

Haldir turned to face you, "I... I am in love with you." Haldir blurted out, looking away again from your gaze. The words slipped out of his mouth without thinking. His face flushed as he waited, hoping that he hadn't ruined his friendship with you. He didn't regret telling you, but he definitely regretted telling you so suddenly. He was worried that you would leave after hearing him confess.

You blinked slowly, trying to process what Haldir had told you. "Love...?" You breathed out finally. "But... You... What?"

"I have loved you for a long time since we were still learning the scrolls together." Haldir said softly, trying to ignore his racing heart and beating heart.

"Why have you never... Said anything?" You asked, not understanding.

"Because..." Haldir hesitated, "I was afraid of rejection. I'm sorry, I shouldn't have told you."

"Haldir, no, I am glad you told me!" You exclaimed, taking his hand in yours abruptly. "Please don't be embarrassed or scared of rejection. I am honored to hear you say these words."

"You are?" He asked anxiously, squeezing your hands tightly.

You nodded, "Positive. I love you, Haldir." Your voice was soft yet filled with excitement.

Haldir looked down to where your hand was connected, blushing heavily as he watched you intertwine your fingers with his. "I'm so relieved, Y/N." He mumbled quietly. He squeezed your hands tightly once more, smiling widely at you as his smile spread across his entire face.

You smiled brightly, laughing quietly as Haldir grinned down softly at you. Your heart was racing as you looked up at Haldir with bright eyes. This was all you ever dreamed about; a boy who loved you, and whom you were in love with. You had always dreamt of something like this happening. Now that it was actually happening, you couldn't help but burst into giggles. Haldir smiled down at you, chuckling lightly as well. You pulled your hand away from Haldir's grasp, bringing it up to cup his cheek gently before leaning up to kiss him. Haldir tensed, a blush forming on his cheeks once more. Before he relaxed, returning the kiss. You smiled against his lips, enjoying his warmth, tasting the sweetness of the wine that he always drank during meals. It was intoxicating. Haldir pulled away slightly, a grin spreading across his face. He kissed your forehead, wrapping his arm around your waist and pulling you closer to him.

"I love you, Y/N." He whispered lovingly, placing another gentle kiss on your forehead.

"I love you too, Haldir." You replied, snuggling closer to him, breathing in his scent. You closed your eyes, inhaling deeply, relishing in the feeling of his arms around you.